Why The Village Square’s mission is vital to shaping Tallahassee’s future
I write today to share with readers the reasons behind my decision to join the team at The Village Square Tallahassee, a decision rooted deeply in my belief in the power of community engagement and civil discourse.
The Village Square Tallahassee is dedicated to bridging divides through discussion and spirited disagreement. In an era marked by polarization and division, The Village Square serves as a unifying force, bringing together people of all stripes to engage in meaningful conversations about the issues that matter most to our community.
One of the reasons I value The Village Square is its unwavering commitment to fostering civil discourse and mutual respect. In a time where political tribalism and ideological extremism often dominate public discourse, The Village Square offers a refreshing alternative—a space where individuals can come together in a spirit of goodwill and mutual understanding to explore complex issues and seek common ground. By promoting respectful dialogue and active listening, The Village Square encourages us to transcend our differences and work towards shared solutions that benefit everyone.
The Village Square plays a vital role in promoting civic engagement and an informed citizenry. Through its diverse range of programs, events, and initiatives, The Village Square empowers residents to become active participants in the democratic process, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to understand complex issues. Whether through small group book discussions, Town Hall forums, webinars and dinner series events, or ‘God Squad’ interfaith conversations, The Village Square inspires each of us to become agents of positive change and advocates for a better future for all.
Lastly, The Village Square embodies the spirit of inclusivity and diversity, welcoming individuals from all walks of life to participate in its programs and events. By providing a platform for opposing views, The Village Square ensures that everyone has a seat at the table and a voice in shaping the future of our city. This commitment to inclusivity not only strengthens our community bonds but also enriches the quality of our public discourse by bringing a wide range of perspectives to the table.
I am proud to be a part of The Village Square Tallahassee, an organization dedicated to building bridges, fostering understanding, and empowering citizens to become active participants in our democracy. Please visit our website to learn more about our work in the community. I hope to meet you as you tune in online or join us in person at one of our many upcoming events. I encourage you to expand your circle of friends to include folks who don’t look or vote like you do. I promise your life will be richer for it.
As we continue our work together, let us strive to uphold the values of civility, inclusivity, and mutual respect that lie at the heart of The Village Square’s mission, and let us work together to cultivate a more vibrant, cohesive, and democratic community for all in Tallahassee.
Kate Kile joins the team at The Village Square as Director of Strategy & Operations. Her 30-year career includes banking, non-profit financial management, teaching financial literacy and advocating for nonviolence.
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This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Why The Village Square’s mission is vital to Tallahassee’s future
