The Rise and Fall of Gary’s Genesis Convention Center

Initially, the Genesis Convention Center stood as a beacon of hope in downtown Gary, symbolizing ambition and civic pride. When it opened in 1981, city officials assured residents that it would boost Gary’s struggling economy by attracting live entertainment, conventions, and regional events.

Yet, the bright promise quickly faded. Rather than generating income, the Genesis Center became a financial burden on the city. In response to escalating costs, Mayor Eddie Melton announced in April the decision to demolish the 45-year-old building. “I made this decision,” Melton stated clearly. “No other entity, no other person. We’re planning a bright future for this location.” Demolition is now imminent.

Not far from the Genesis Center stands The Fusion, a 40-foot statue linked to the site’s future plans. Although not threatened by demolition, redevelopment director Chris Harris mentioned the possibility of relocating The Fusion to enhance development potential. No developer has been chosen for the site yet.

Created by renowned Chicago artist Omri Amrany, who is also known for the Michael Jordan statue at the United Center, The Fusion consists of steel, bronze, and glass. It’s located near Broadway on the Genesis Center plaza. The project cost $650,000, funded by a partnership between U.S. Steel and the city, with U.S. Steel providing a 75,000-pound steel ladle for the sculpture’s foundation. The piece commemorates the city’s centennial in 2006 and Scott King, the mayor at the time, hoped it would spark economic revitalization.

According to Amrany, the statue represents cultural unity among Gary’s diverse ethnic communities. “They’re fully covered to show that despite differences in appearance, there’s no difference among us,” Amrany stated in a 2006 interview. The artwork features three workers pouring steel, surrounded by glass flames and granite butterflies symbolizing various world cultures.

McKenya Dilworth-Smith, a leader in the Gary Historical Society and Gary Arts Council, emphasized the importance of public consultation if The Fusion is to be relocated. She regards the statue as a critical reflection of Gary’s identity. “Despite criticism, I have a profound appreciation for it,” she commented. She also suggested potential new locations such as the Gary Land Building or Midtown for the artwork.

The Fusion has experienced wear and tear over time. A granite piece fell in 2007, requiring repairs. It happened again in 2013, with pieces left on the ground for months until fixed. Meanwhile, the Genesis Center witnessed its directors misappropriating funds in 2017 and 2018, resulting in federal charges and restitution payments. Despite hosting major events like concerts by Whitney Houston and Prince, as well as Donald Trump’s Miss USA pageants, the center ultimately closed in 2020 due to declining bookings and maintenance burdens. The final major event was the 2019 funeral of five-term mayor Richard G. Hatcher, under whose administration the center was built.

Following its closure, vandalism became a concern. In response, the city installed a $9,000 security camera system last year to protect the premises.