Za Opavu

The Za Opavu association was founded in 2007 in the pursuit of local beautification as a reaction to the unsatisfactory choices of certain municipal tenders, largely stemming from the community’s need to become engaged in the socio-politics of the city. The association quickly developed from a protest and activist entity into an initiator of debates about public space, taking care of cultural sites and the environment in Opava and its surroundings, and educating people on topics such as urbanism and architecture. Its operations take place mainly in the Matiční Dům in the center of Opava, and the neighboring Alžbětínská Zahrada. The organization is financed from municipal, ministry and foundation grants, and most activities depend on volunteer work. The breadth of activities is served by a core of pedagogues, historians, restorers, theorists and art historians, as well as environmental workers. The association organizes workshops and lectures, and exhibitions; and also presents the J. M. Olbrich Award for the best new building and renovation work in the Opava region. It also organizes Den Architektury, helps in fundraising for the conservation of small historical sites and planting greenery. They also present locally important people as part of the Opavské Noční KU-PÉ. They organize summer camps and a diverse program for children, as well as a community garden and seed bank. In addition, they provide infrastructure for yoga lessons and other events. The organization plays an important role in informing the public about planned construction and investment in the city center and its surroundings, and they have started a number of petitions and discussions among investors, municipal deputies and the public. Za Opavu played a catalyzing role in the Slezanka cause, where a shopping center was to be built in the city center. Collaboration with other local groups and providing support for young organizers of sociocultural events is also an important part of their work.