There’s no denying there’s division in America today. No matter how you lean politically, communities all around the United States are struggling to stay connected and unified. Nevertheless, organizations are working to keep communities strong and resilient. The Langston Centre, located at 315 Elm Street in downtown Johnson City, is one of those organizations. 

From 1893 to 1965, the site on Elm Street was home to Langston High School, Johnson City’s segregated high school for African-American students. What was once home to a reminder of America’s struggle with segregation is now a thriving community center serving the city’s population. 

Opening in 2019, the Langston Centre operates with a three-fold approach: Respect the Past, Recognize the Present, and Realize the Future.

“We are a multicultural facility focused on community engagement through arts, education, and leadership,” said Adam Dickson, the Langston Centre’s director. 

The Centre offers a variety of programming and events throughout the year, including the Festival of Nations. This event, which was born out of a partnership with Northeast State Community College’s English as a Second Language program, is a great way to promote multiculturalism in the Tri-Cities region.

According to Dickson, “the students have their classes here at the Langston Centre, and about 12 countries were represented at the festival last year. People will dress in their native attire and bring food from their respective countries, and we had a huge turnout.”

Additionally, the Langston Centre has partnered with ETSU’s Appalachian Studies program to provide support to the community through a community health task force. 

Adam Dickson
(Contributed/ETSU)

Building a strong community takes hard work in times of hardship, and Dickson says it best: “What I have learned is that we can build bridges and tear down walls if we are intentional in doing the work, and we have to build trust, too.”

If you’re interested in getting involved with the Langston Centre’s mission, there are a variety of opportunities for ETSU students. If you’re interested in learning more about Johnson City’s multicultural history, consider listening to the “Community Health 365” Podcast, produced and distributed by the Langston Centre’s staff. It’s available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and online at https://community-history-365.simplecast.com/.

In addition to tuning into the podcast, consider using the Centre as a study space, getting involved with a book club, taking a class, or volunteering your time as a teacher in their community education program. If you’re looking to explore Johnson City’s vibrant community, consider starting at the Langston Centre.

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