#ParkHillTalks Online - Covid-19 - November 2

We host #ParkHillTalks in places that people feel comfortable to share their experiences and stories. These are often places that people already congregate regularly.

In response to COVID-19, we have had to find flexibility in reaching people at home using video conferencing to keep the conversation going. These talks are intended to provide a space for community members to be updated in real time, find resources, and ultimately continue to build community.

#ParkHillTalks have unofficially been occurring in places in the community and online for as long as the neighborhood has existed. Bringing the structure of community organizing to video conferencing helps provide the platform to turn the conversations to action.

November 2, 2020

• 11 attendees

• Key topics

  • Upcoming election

    • There is worry about what is going to happen after the election. We discussed how the surreal times we are living in and the uncertainty.

    • There is so much weighing and riding on the election. We discussed how results might take a couple of days.

    • Given how 2020 has played out, no matter who wins could result in protests. We discussed that this may be what needs to happen to move forward.

    • There is hope because of great things happening in the community in the face of fear, which takes away some stress. We discussed there is power in groups trying to make our community better.

    • The voter turnout for young voters is at a record high and one good thing to come out of the election. We discussed how it is very encouraging to see the projection of how much that is going to grow in the years to come.

  • Community

    • A young leader on the video call is starting a club for black and brown students to teach them they don’t have to go towards violence and drugs to cope with emotions. We discussed how building this community starts at home and at school.

    • Kids above everything obtained a new office space that can be used to support youth needing additional support with school. We discussed how individuals can contribute to create solutions in the community.

  • Outcomes

    • We agreed that in these times of uncertainty, community and organization collaboration is essential to continue important work.

    • We agreed that this is time for community to raise up and help each other in a coordinated effort to change the current dynamic.

    • We agreed that people still need access to resources despite the election, and we have dedicated partners who can assist.