RE: a followEup on yesterday's discussion: a solid example

[Steve Taylor <Steve@miltoxproj.org>]

Hi Andrea:

Important question.  My own perspective is that it leads to the concepts of trust and leadership.  We all have busy lives and many choices to make.  Most of us have struggles to justice not just in our environment, but at our jobs, often in our families, and in society and culture in general.  Many, many people will know about an existing or potential problem, and be angry about it, but not get involved.  Often this is because they aren't sure what to do, or simply need a vehicle.

My experience is that people actually get involved about something they care about when someone they trust (generally not federal government staff) talks to them about it and convinces them to take a specific action.  This may include even making them aware of the problem, and certainly includes making them aware of what is being done about it and specific steps they can take to act.

Perhaps more important is the concept of leadership.  Leaders are people - be definition - who others listen to and follow.   Some people in communities are existing leaders with bases of people that they can activate.  Other people become involved and develop leadership skills and bases of supporters.

So: as others, particularly Connie Tucker, have pointed out, the key is involving BONA FIDE community leaders and organizations that have arisen or arise with the support of the community.

Steve