Community Conversation (part one)

In an effort to create a list of issues important to the people of Holyoke, a group has formed inside Crush with the purpose of having a Community Conversation event. This came about because another Crush group was planning a mayoral debate, and was getting hung up on what questions should be asked of mayoral candidates. The Crushers worried about their own narrow view of issues in town so the idea of a community conversation was presented as a solution to finding those questions, and issues in a more democratic way.



Last night's conversation, held at the Open Square, was a sort of rehearsal for the main event, scheduled May 19th at the High School. Most of last night's attendees were community leaders of one type or another. The idea was for them to experience the conversation, and bring more people to the main event. With simple guidelines we discussed issues in small groups, shared insights, and discovered what is valued by others. Questions like, "What do you value about Holyoke?", were presented, and everyone took turns answering while a recorder at each table took notes.



Even though I was involved with the planning of this event, I didn't really know what to expect. I thought it might be awkward, or uncomfortable to talk to unfamiliar people, but everyone was very friendly, and wanted to hear my insights on the city. I should have known that I'd enjoy this. After all, we were talking about Holyoke. One of my favorite subjects. In fact many of us wanted to keep talking when it was over. Tables were being put a way, and we didn't want to get up and leave.



One thing I took away from this is how much new people in town love Holyoke. One person remarked that unlike any other place they lived, Holyoke has a heart. They explained that in other places you are not considered a "native" until you have lived there for some time if not many generations, but in Holyoke you are a true Holyoker the moment you live here. That fact surprised them.