Community Transformation
Building Bridges: Supporting Our Community Amid Global Turmoil
By Deo Mwano
When we think about our community, it is important to consider the diverse representation of nationalities and how global issues and conflicts might impact our neighbors who have ties to these nations. For example, in New Hampshire, DMC has had the pleasure of working with people from various nationalities, including Bhutanese, Iraqi, Afghan, Ukrainian, Bosnian, Somali, Rwandan, and Congolese communities. Our neighbors who have family members in these countries are affected daily by the events in their homelands.
As a community, it is crucial to understand that even though individuals may feel safe here, they might still experience past and present trauma due to ongoing conflicts in their countries of origin. We must support our community members by learning about their experiences and perspectives to find ways to assist them effectively.
Today, global conflicts have significant impacts on many of our neighbors. Show curiosity and humility in learning how these issues affect people and discover what you can do to build a supportive community for them, even if they sometimes feel like outcasts. In times of celebration, we should celebrate with our neighbors from various nations. In times of sorrow and hardship, we must stand by them, mourn with them, and find ways to show solidarity and amplify their voices to address the challenges their families and friends face.
Here is an example: In Manchester and Concord, NH, there are many natives of the Democratic Republic of Congo who have made New Hampshire their new home. The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced numerous conflicts since its first civil war in 1997, when Mobutu Sese Seko was ousted after a rebellion. Today, the country is in the news due to conflicts in the eastern region, where minerals like coltan and cobalt are extracted and traded for manufacturing batteries, LCD screens, and chips. Although the Democratic Republic of Congo is rich in natural resources, not everyone benefits from this wealth. Many people have died, and families have lost loved ones due to these conflicts.
Our community members from the Congo and other troubled regions are struggling and in pain. It is our duty as a community to support them during their challenging times, helping them navigate their identities in the US and cope with the negative impacts on their loved ones back home. Reach out in solidarity, learn about their struggles, and find ways to be a good neighbor.
By coming together and showing genuine care and support, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic community. Let’s work together to ensure everyone feels valued and supported, regardless of their background or the challenges they face.
The DMC Community Transformation Team brings over 25 years of combined experience, collaborating with nonprofits, cities and towns, grant makers, and other nonprofits to make a positive impact. DMC has successfully created programs and campaigns that bridge diverse communities, addressing root causes of problems and facilitating sustainable solutions.
