“DSNI proves that politicians and activists can negotiate peacefully and residents can work together for common good to restore neighborhoods … This inspiring film may spark others to become involved in their community” explains Candace Smith from Booklist.

Full review here:

“Filmmakers Mark Lipman and Leah Mahan documented Boston’s Dudley Street neighborhood in Holding Ground: The Rebirth of Dudley Street (1996). Lipman and Mahan return to the area to see how the grassroots program Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative (DSNI) has fared since their last film. Before-and-after shots of the area document the neighborhood metamorphosis from streets filled with abandoned cars and garbage and high crime rates to a neighborhood of well-maintained houses and parks. Agreements with home owners have kept housing affordable, and public areas are maintained through help from volunteers. A proposed community center funded by a grant from the Salvation Army is the latest challenge. DSNI proves that politicians and activists can negotiate peacefully and residents can work together for common good to restore neighborhoods. This inspiring film may spark others to become involved in their community. The college and university price is $249.”