People Over Data Centers

Hey folks,

This isn’t my usual newsletter — it’s a call to action. Sorry if you’ve received versions of this before. While I covered data centers back in October, our local politicians still haven’t gotten the message: people should come before corporations.

Over the past few days, I’ve spoken with a lot of people about getting more active in their communities and engaging at the neighborhood level. A consistent theme keeps coming up: folks want to do the right thing, but often aren’t sure where their presence actually makes a difference.

This week, I’m asking people to show up for Martindale-Brightwood, a historic Black neighborhood in Indianapolis, as residents push back on a proposed data center. Folks there have been clear they don’t want it — and they’ve also been clear about feeling ignored by politicians and business leaders.

A little background: I lead the Near East Community Resource District Council (CRDC), serving NESCO and several surrounding neighborhoods. Doing that work has taught me something I take seriously — that when a neighborhood asks for support around decisions that will shape its future, showing up matters.

This isn’t about being anti-development. It’s about whether we believe neighborhoods deserve to be heard, particularly when their collective voice is up against powerful corporate lobbyists who prioritize profit over community welfare. Civic participation must still mean something when the stakes are high, the consequences are permanent, and it is clear who benefits and who bears the costs.

If you want to support Martindale-Brightwood residents as they oppose the proposed data center, please attend the community panel this Thursday. Your presence will show that many people support their efforts and believe in neighborhood self-determination. Come to listen, ask questions, and stand alongside residents to amplify their voices. By showing up, you help strengthen their case to local leaders and decision-makers.

Panelists

• Ben Inskeep, Citizens Action Coalition

• Brittany York, Protect Franklin Township

• Kevin Nichols, Earth Charter Indiana

• Vernon Compton, Brightwood Concerned Citizens

• Paula Brooks, Hoosier Environmental Council

Event details

Thursday, January 8, 2026
Oasis of Hope Baptist Church
1701 E. 25th St.
6:00 PM (Doors open at 5:30 PM)

Thanks for reading. Hope to see you Thursday.

— Clif