Reclaiming the Roots: The Future Site of U.N.I.T.Y. Village Gardens

Standing atop a broken toilet and a pile of rubbish, in front of a house that time and neglect have left in ruins, Minister OG DJ Hard envisions a transformation. This site, located on Detroit’s east side in the historic Black Bottom neighborhood, is the future home of U.N.I.T.Y. Village Gardens, a beacon of hope and renewal that represents one of the flagship programs of D.A.R.I.U.S. Inc.

The acronym U.N.I.T.Y. stands for "You and I Together Yo," with "Yo" referring to Yahweh’s plan—God’s divine blueprint for renewal and restoration. Similarly, D.A.R.I.U.S. Inc., which stands for Deliberately Activating Righteousness and United Sustainability, is deeply rooted in the mission of rebuilding lives and communities through sustainable practices, education, and faith.

This project is inspired by the words of Amos 9:13–15 (The Message):

“Yes indeed, it won’t be long now. God’s Decree.Things are going to happen so fast your head will swim...Everywhere you look—blessings! Blessings like wine pouring off the mountains and hills.I’ll make everything right again for my people Israel:They’ll rebuild their ruined cities.They’ll plant vineyards and drink good wine.They’ll work their gardens and eat fresh vegetables.And I’ll plant them, plant them on their own land.They’ll never again be uprooted from the land I’ve given them.”

This scripture perfectly encapsulates our vision: rebuilding what has been ruined, restoring what has been neglected, and planting seeds of sustainability, education, and hope.

The story of Black Bottom holds particular resonance. Often misinterpreted as a derogatory term, the name actually originated from the area's nutrient-rich soil, long valued by Indigenous stewards for its fertility. Colonizers later called it "Black Bottom," recognizing the land’s unmatched potential for growth and abundance. Today, we reclaim that narrative—this is good earth, strong earth, and our earth.

Through U.N.I.T.Y. Village Gardens, we will revitalize this land to create a space for sustainable gardening, intergenerational education, and community restoration. Garden suites made from eco-friendly shipping containers will host mission-driven groups, and the gardens will supply fresh produce to a neighborhood often overlooked in terms of access to healthy food and vibrant spaces.

As Minister OG DJ Hard reflects on the parallel journey of personal and communal restoration, this blighted site is not just a symbol of neglect—it’s a canvas for renewal. Just as God works to repair and rebuild us from within, we are honored to do the same for this community. Together, we will plant vineyards, sow seeds of hope, and watch as blessings pour off the mountains and hills.

Join us in this mission to transform and restore—because U.N.I.T.Y. is truly You and I Together Yo.