Glenview organizers ask Shelby County for support for April 'Community Roots' festival

Representatives of the Glenview neighborhood asked the Shelby County Commission on Feb. 4 for support for the Glenview Community Roots Festival, a free, family-focused cultural event planned for April.

"My name is Till Wright, and this is is Crystal, and we're representing the Glenview community," Till Wright told the commission, outlining plans for a walking tour, pop-up art exhibit, youth safety forum and local vendors. Wright said the organizers have applied for community grants and asked the commission to consider support. Commissioner Thornton and others thanked the neighborhood leaders for their organization and community work.

Why it matters: The festival aims to highlight local landmarks and strengthen community safety and pride in a historically Black South Memphis neighborhood; commissioners noted the event could be a model for other neighborhoods seeking to boost public safety and youth engagement. The organizers said they are seeking funding and partnership help but did not specify a dollar amount.

The commission heard the request during the consent-agenda review; no formal commission action was taken at the meeting other than to thank the organizers and note the request would be handled through the appropriate staff channels.