Summary:

My idea is to set up something like a UN for our neighborhood. I would call this MUNC (Minnesota United Neighborhood Coalition). This would start as a pilot in my neighborhood where I canvass local businesses, churches, schools, etc. to come to a preliminary meeting to discuss issues that we are having. We would come to choosing some neighborhood ‘ambassadors’ to serve as community point people for issues, resources and connectivity between cultures. The core ‘UN’ group would commit to some dedicated time to talk to residents about their experiences and concerns in the neighborhood and bring them back to the table. The group would come to some conclusions about major concerns (such as crime, intolerance, isolation, etc) and would come up with initiatives to address these concerns. An example I will give; Say we get a common complaint that community events are always for one group of people. We would initiate community events such as block parties, ice cream socials, or other events that will be hosted by different cultures. Whatever the issue is, it will be important to have a panel of representatives that are committed to drawing the community together. We all have to throw our hat in the ring, but it’s easier when there is a format to follow. The MUNC would like to be this format. I view it as a cross between a neighborhood watch, but more centered around inclusion and learning in each community. This would be a pilot to see if this type of dedicated group could then go to other communities in MN and set up their own MUNC group. I have seen people love to come to events, and if the core team is facilitating an environment to do fun things, solve issues and get neighbors toward a common goal- we will all open up to one another.