BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Urban Alchemy, a city-funded nonprofit tasked with addressing homelessness in Birmingham, is facing community backlash after displaying a profanity-laden banner at a recent farmers market event at East Lake United Methodist Church. The incident, which occurred June 7, has prompted criticism from residents and city officials, raising questions about the organization’s messaging and use of public funds.
Urban Alchemy, a California-based group, was awarded a $1.5 million contract by the city last year to operate up to 60 micro-shelters and provide outreach services for Birmingham’s unhoused population. The organization, which employs individuals with lived experience of incarceration, homelessness, or addiction, launched the HEART program in January to respond to non-emergency calls involving homeless residents and to connect them with resources.
The controversy erupted when Urban Alchemy set up a tent at the farmers market featuring a large sign with the phrase “No F—ery,” a slogan that includes a four-letter profanity. Community members and church leaders expressed concern over the appropriateness of such language at a family-friendly, faith-based event. City Council member Hunter Williams said he received multiple complaints and called the display “unacceptable” for a taxpayer-funded group, especially in a church setting.
Urban Alchemy defended the phrase as part of its internal culture, explaining that it serves as a reminder to staff to reject harmful behaviors and systems that perpetuate injustice in vulnerable communities. However, the organization acknowledged that the language was not suitable for all public spaces and committed to revising its signage and materials to better reflect Birmingham’s values.
The city’s partnership with Urban Alchemy has not been without scrutiny. In addition to the recent incident, the group has faced legal challenges in other states, including allegations of employing unlicensed workers and inadequate training. Despite these concerns, city officials have maintained that due diligence was conducted before awarding the contract and that Urban Alchemy’s work has so far met expectations in Birmingham.
Urban Alchemy’s HEART program continues to operate, with a workforce of about 20 in Birmingham, focusing on connecting unhoused residents to shelter and support services. The organization’s approach, which emphasizes second chances and lived experience, has been praised by some city leaders as innovative and compassionate.
In response to the farmers market incident, city officials have requested that Urban Alchemy refrain from using profane language on clothing or signage at public events and city facilities, underscoring the need for messaging that aligns with local community standards. Urban Alchemy has pledged to honor this request and to remain responsive to community feedback as it continues its work in Birmingham.