Bringing Communities Together
Consider the classic tale, Across the Alley, written by award winning author Richard Michelson. It’s a story about two boys – one Jewish, one African-American – living next door to each other. Behind closed doors, the boys exchange talents and become interested in activities that don’t typify each race. Through support from their families, the boys are able to continue their newfound talents and overcome barriers between both communities.
The significance of this narrative brings me to this question: how important is social cohesion to a functional society? I’m sure we all agree that it is an essential ingredient although this is not to suggest that everyone must think, act and live uniformly – it is a simple suggestion that socializing with the ‘other’ and recognizing commonalities creates a healthy society for all.
Toronto is the world’s cosmopolitan capital: difference exists here in every way thinkable. With all the great progress this city has made to overcome these differences, social bridges that connect different groups still need to be made. Everyone living, working, schooling or playing in Toronto’s diverse communities should feel a sense of belonging – an almost indescribable feeling that “yes, I am part of something.”
I am absolutely sure that all of us want that something to be the best that it possibly can. Sure, it doesn’t happen overnight, but if efforts were made from all angles, change is possible.
So how can you get involved?
There are some wonderful community events and fairs organized by the Lawrence Heights Inter-Organization Network, LHION for short. There are so many ways to participate – as a resident, community agency or business.
Sunday October 23, from 1-5 PM – LHION, The Neptune Renewal Group, the City of Toronto, and Toronto Community Housing are organizing the One Community Festival – an ingenious event bringing together the communities of Lawrence Heights, Lotherton, Neptune and Lawrence Manor/Baycrest. Download OneCommunityFestival_Proposal flyer for more.
Wednesday October 19th from 1-4 PM – Participate in the Lawrence Heights Community Awareness Fair. Information booths and workshops will address the needs of building community in Lawrence Heights. Download LH Community Awareness Fair_Flyer for more details.
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