In this episode, Nichole and Scott talk about how individual and group efforts to revitalize connection in communities are necessary---but may not be sufficient for sustained change. Once we have the mindset and skills of pluralism, we need spaces and institutions that enable us to practice them. We need local governments and community stakeholders to invest in policies that foster “civic infrastructure.” Special guests Sam Pressler and Layla Zaidane help us explore the role of policy and institutions in fostering this kind of connection.

In order to thrive, Sam Pressler argues that local governments and community leaders should refocus on building civic life, prioritizing relationships and belonging as part of their policies and initiatives. Sam introduces the Connective Tissue Framework, which identifies over 150 policy opportunities to strengthen community connections, and highlights examples of this work, like Boston's Office of Civic Organizing (which fosters neighborhood interactions through block party grants and cleanup events) and citizen-government partnerships to create welcoming materials for newcomers, or “Old Home Weeks” to bring former residents back for community-building activities.

Layla Zaidane, the President and CEO of Future Caucus, describes how organizations focused on relationship building can promote collaboration across differences, just as Future Caucus does with young elected officials, regardless of political affiliation—by leveraging a shared, third identity (for Future Caucus, generation). While receiving training in leadership, communication, negotiation and bridge-building, young lawmakers build personal relationships, allowing them to see beyond polarization and find common ground across the aisle. Layla emphasizes the importance of “institutionalizing relationships across differences” in order to ensure continued contact and support.

Actionable Steps For Communities:

• Create Inclusive Spaces:
• Develop public parks, libraries, and community centers as hubs for connection.
• Design accessible spaces that encourage diverse groups to gather and interact.
• Promote Civic Engagement:
• Organize town-wide events like block parties, festivals, or cultural celebrations.
• Start initiatives like "Neighborhood Watch" or "Adopt-a-Street" programs to foster collaboration.
• Develop Welcome Initiatives:
• Create welcome kits for newcomers with resources about local services and groups and host orientation meet-and-greets to integrate new residents.
• Support Bridging Activities:
• Provide micro-grants for projects that bring different groups together, such as intergenerational programs or cross-cultural events.
• Encourage shared-use facilities for meetings, classes, or celebrations.
• Use a Connection Lens in Policy:
• Embed policies that strengthen social capital into housing, education, and transportation planning.
• Incentivize participatory design in public projects to ensure residents feel a sense of ownership.

HOSTS:

Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute

Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum

Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts