Building Stronger Communities Through Culture and Connection
Communities thrive when their unique voices are heard and their stories are celebrated. Columbus is a vibrant city with rich cultural heritage, home to diverse communities and artistic traditions that shape our shared identity. Yet, as we grow and change, it’s crucial that we preserve this identity, foster connection, and ensure every resident feels seen, valued, and included.
For me, strengthening our community and cultural identity isn’t just about preserving what we have—it’s about creating spaces and opportunities for everyone to participate in shaping our city’s future.
From the Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival, which uplifts and celebrates our LGBTQ+ community, to the community pride of 614 Day, the creativity showcased at the Columbus Arts Festival, and the traditions of the Columbus Italian Festival, our city is filled with cultural events that connect us and inspire us. These moments of celebration tell the story of who we are and who we aspire to be.
To preserve and expand these spaces, we must:
- Invest in Cultural Events: Ensure festivals like Pride, 614 Day, the Arts Festival, and the Italian Festival continue to grow and remain accessible, showcasing the full spectrum of our community’s creativity and identity.
- Preserve Artistic Heritage: Support Columbus’s artistic traditions by funding public art, performances, and programs that keep our culture alive and vibrant.
- Create Accessible Spaces: Develop and maintain venues where residents from all walks of life can gather, express themselves, and share their stories.
Culture connects us, and it’s through this connection that we foster pride, unity, and belonging.
Community isn’t just built through events and spaces—it’s strengthened through participation. When residents are empowered to engage in decisions that affect their lives, trust grows, and governance becomes a partnership.
To encourage this engagement, I will:
- Host Regular “Community Council” Meetings for District 7: Create open forums where residents can share concerns, offer feedback, and learn about ongoing initiatives.
- Prioritize Transparency: Ensure that city decisions are accessible and understandable to all, with clear communication and opportunities for public input.
- Promote Civic Education: Equip residents with the knowledge they need to navigate government systems and advocate for their communities effectively.
Transparent governance isn’t just about accountability; it’s about fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration among residents.
Imagine a Columbus where every resident feels a deep sense of pride in their community—where cultural events like the Stonewall Pride Festival, 614 Day, the Columbus Arts Festival, and the Italian Festival are celebrated as cornerstones of our identity, and artistic spaces bring us together. Imagine a city where governance is transparent and participatory, and every resident feels empowered to contribute to our collective future.
This vision isn’t just aspirational—it’s achievable. By investing in cultural identity and empowering residents to engage, we can create a city that feels like home to everyone, no matter where they’re from or what their story is.
I’m committed to building a Columbus where culture, community, and connection are at the heart of our growth. Together, we can preserve what makes our city special while shaping a future we’re all proud to be part of.
Let’s celebrate Columbus—together; follow me on Instagram or sign up for more information!
.d.