Lauren A. Hood (Detroit, Michigan) is a writer, city planner and community developer with a focus on the imaginative capacities of the arts. In 2021, she founded the Institute for AfroUrbanism (IAU), a research organization for strategic development focused on the ideation and enrichment of Black communities. Working at the intersection of African ancestry, Afrofuturism and civic change, the IAU seeks to identify the foundational social, structural and spiritual conditions necessary in order for Black folks to thrive. As a community consultant and equity facilitator, she holds space for otherwise difficult conversations that allow practitioners and citizen stakeholders to understand and value each other's contributions while working toward shared transformational goals. Hood’s work as a writer, mediator, public speaker and consultant employs strategies of storytelling, placekeeping and relational address to conceive of a community’s past harms, present needs and future possibilities. An avid daydreamer and manifestor who finds inspiration in nature, Hood’s practice focuses on the powers of imagination and intention to spiritually enrich civic life.

Civic Fellowships

  • BME

    • Vanguard Fellow, (2020)

Travel Study

Public Speaking & Writing

Photo Gallery

Headshots

W O R K    |     M E D I A     |     C O N T A C T

Screen Shot 2020-09-01 at 12.46.53 PM.png

“Award is in recognition of someone who shows leadership in planning & civic issues, and exemplifies the vision, commitment, and accomplishments of Charles A. Blessing, FAIA, the visionary Detroit city planner, architect, engineer, and educator who committed himself to the pursuit of a higher quality of life for all.”