Tayshan Hayden-Smith, an activist and gardener, resigned from his role at the Royal Horticultural Society, disillusioned by its perceived lack of commitment to accessibility. He criticized the Chelsea flower show for its focus on exclusivity, arguing that real justice involves redistribution of power and resources. Hayden-Smith's departure highlights concerns surrounding representation in gardening and the need for institutional change to genuinely support disadvantaged communities. He gained recognition after creating the Grenfell Garden of Peace, which emphasized community healing through gardening following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire.
I entered this role well intentioned and optimistic. On reflection, I now see that I was also naive. Representation without redistribution of power is not justice.
Year after year, the Chelsea flower show sets a precedent that celebrates spectacle over sustainability, exclusivity over equity.
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