19 Black Families Purchase 97 Acres in Georgia to Build Safe Haven for Their Community
GEORGIA — In a powerful act of self-determination and community vision, 19 Black families have purchased nearly 97 acres of land in Wilkinson County, Georgia, with a goal to build a safe and thriving community for Black families and people of color.
Real estate agent Ashley Scott and entrepreneur Renee Walters led the initiative, which took root in August when the group finalized the land acquisition just east of Macon, Georgia. The rural property marks what they call the beginning of “Freedom, Georgia” — a planned sanctuary space rooted in empowerment, equity, and safety.
“Welcome to Freedom!”: A Bold Vision
Standing on the newly purchased land, Scott shared her excitement with CNN:
“I’m hoping that it will be a thriving safe haven for people of color, for Black families in particular.”
The project emerged from conversations around racial equity and safety, especially in the aftermath of high-profile incidents of racial violence across the country. Rather than wait for change from external systems, the group set out to build their own environment — one where they could thrive economically, socially, and culturally.
Rural Georgia Location with Deep Intent
The property lies in Wilkinson County, a rural area where large tracts of land are still available at lower prices. While the founders originally didn’t intend to purchase such a large space, they quickly realized the opportunity to build something long-lasting.
“We didn’t initially plan on buying a large plot of land,” Walters said, “but we had a vision that was clear — to create a safe space for our families.”
The land is expected to eventually host homes, community farms, parks, and training spaces, with sustainability and Black ownership at the heart of the vision.
Online Response & Missing Reactions
While the initiative has received support from many on social media and in the press, it has also raised questions about media consistency. A tweet sharing the CNN report questioned why major civil rights watchdogs, such as the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), haven’t publicly addressed the story or commented on its social impact.
The tweet reads:
“I tried to find the ADL’s condemnation statement when 19 Black families purchased 97 acres in Georgia, but I couldn’t find it.”
The comment reflects a wider sentiment in some online circles questioning why Black-focused community building receives less scrutiny — or support — than other large-scale social initiatives.
A Growing Trend of Land-Based Empowerment
The story reflects a broader movement of land ownership and self-sufficiency emerging across marginalized communities. From Black-owned farming co-ops to rural safe spaces for LGBTQ+ families, the use of land as a foundation for safety and freedom is gaining momentum.
Freedom, Georgia’s founders say they are open to welcoming allies, but their primary goal is to ensure that Black families have a place to thrive without fear.
Have you heard of similar land-buying initiatives or community-building efforts near you? Tell us what local families are doing to reclaim safety and opportunity at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com — where your stories build a stronger South.
