Browse Interviews

Near West Side resident Mike Fiala recollects how his early life experiences shaped his role in Cleveland's Catholic Worker movement. He shares his involvement in activism on behalf of affordable housing and providing services for unhoused people on the Near West Side. Fiala highlights the rise of gentrification in the Near West Side, along with the expansion of St. Ignatius High School. He also recollects his involvement in the 2015 March for Tamir Rice.

Maryellen Eickman-Fiala details her early life growing up in Forest Park, an early planned suburb of Cincinnati. Eickman-Fiala recollects her college experience at Case Western Reserve University. She highlights her work in dietetics and as a diabetes instructor. Eickman-Fiala shares her experience living in the Near West Side and discusses its continued gentrification since her arrival. She shares her involvement in various community boards. Eickman-Fiala recollects her experience with…