How the Indianapolis Propylaeum is Revitalizing Community for a New Era
Throughout history, women have pioneered the creation of “third spaces”—gathering places that exist beyond the home and work, where communities can mobilize, share ideas, and organize for change. From suffrage parlors where votes for women were strategized, to union halls, libraries, and community kitchens, women have long recognized the power of space as a catalyst for collective voice and action.
These third spaces weren’t just physical meeting spots; they were incubators for social progress. They gave women, and often other marginalized groups, the chance to connect, learn, and push for policies that reshaped their communities. Today, that legacy remains critical. At a time when many people feel politically excluded or unwelcome, the need for inclusive gathering spaces has never been greater.
That’s why the revitalization of the Indianapolis Propylaeum, a historic community hub in Central Indiana, is so important—it’s a renewed vision for how this space can serve as a catalyst for community and empowerment. With a renewed focus rooted in its founding purpose and expanded programming, the Propylaeum is embarking on a new chapter as a multifaceted hub for community events, workshops, and dialogue.
“In many ways, we’re returning to our roots as a gathering place for organizing and community,” said Chelsea Marburger, Executive Director of the Indianapolis Prop. “By connecting women leaders, celebrating arts and culture, and supporting historic preservation, the Propylaeum can once again offer a home base for civic conversations and for partners who need a place to be heard.”
A Legacy of Women’s Leadership in Public Spaces
The Indianapolis Propylaeum’s story doesn’t just align with the larger narrative of women leveraging spaces to drive progress—it was one of the first established third spaces built by and for women. As the first, the Propylaeum set the standard and, knowingly or not, became the inspiration for future third spaces for women. For years, it stood as the only venue where women could gather, organize, and lead—not as an entity that followed, but as one that forged. From its earliest days, the Propylaeum provided a safe and welcoming space for conversations about education, health, civil rights, and democracy could take root—long before women even had the legal right to vote. It’s in places like this that grassroots ideas turned into movements that transformed policy and culture.
The Indianapolis Propylaeum aims to serve as a multi-use hub for community events, workshops, and dialogue. With flexible space designed to host everything from grassroots organizing sessions to arts programming and policy forums, the Propylaeum is reminding the elders and reintroducing itself to younger generations as a true third space for Central Indiana.
“So many people are looking for connection and community right now,” Marburger noted. “The Propylaeum has always provided that to its members and the broader community—whether it’s a group of women strategizing around civic action, the monthly book club, a nonprofit hosting a workshop, or neighbors coming together to share ideas. We want everyone to feel like they have a seat at the table.”
A Critical Time for Community
The current political climate makes the need for welcoming, inclusive spaces even more urgent. Across the nation, women and communities of color often find themselves navigating environments where their voices are marginalized. Locally, many Hoosiers are seeking ways to stay engaged and strengthen their communities despite these challenges.
Spaces like the Indianapolis Propylaeum can make the difference between people disengaging or leaning into action. They remind us of a truth women have known for generations: when we gather, we can change the world.
“This isn’t just about four walls and a roof,” Marburger emphasized. “It’s about building power through community. We believe that the Propylaeum can once again be a home for ideas and movements that transform lives. You never know who you’ll meet, how your idea will grow, or what you’ll learn from the members of the Indianapolis Propylaeum.”
Women4Change is proud to partner with the Indianapolis Propylaeum to amplify its mission and ensure women continue to shape Indiana’s civic future. We encourage our members, allies, and neighbors to engage with the Propylaeum—attend an event, bring your organization, or simply stop by to connect with others who share our belief in the power of community. Become an active Propylaeum member today!
The Indianapolis Propylaeum is both a charitable foundation and a building that hosts a thriving, nationally registered Historic Landmark. It’s a continuation of a long tradition of women creating spaces for voice, belonging, and change. And it’s a reminder of the collective power of women and of community.
Chelsea Marburger is the Executive Director of the Indianapolis Propylaeum, where she leads the revitalization of one of Central Indiana’s most dynamic community spaces. A longtime advocate for equity and civic engagement, she is committed to creating inclusive third spaces where women and marginalized voices can connect, organize, and thrive.