A pilot project is hoping to close political and cultural differences in Powell River through small group conversations.
Kate Sutherland, a consultant in community and organizational development, spoke to city council Tuesday night about the Westview Ratepayer Society’s Bridging Community Differences Initiative.
After moving to the Cranberry neighbourhood of Powell River three years ago, Sutherland is concerned about the current social climate.
“And I believe that an important part of helping us move forward is that we find ways to really listen to each other and to be able to speak to each other get to know each other as people behind the positions that currently put people in different camps,” she said.
The initiative is being run by the Westview Ratepayers Society’s education subcommittee.
It involves getting groups of six people together in a living room to talk about a politically charged topic over 90 minutes.
Sutherland also spoke about why she brought the idea forward.
“Helping to strengthen the fabric in this community so that we can talk to each other. Even if we don’t agree with each other we can find a way of meeting with each other, learning from each other and finding good ways forward,” Sutherland said.
She says the idea has already been piloted by the society’s executive with positive results, including better understanding and appreciation for others’ viewpoints.
Sutherland is hopeful the pilot could start this fall.
Mayor Ron Woznow thanked Sutherland for sharing the idea with council.
Councillor Trina Isakson asked if would be helpful if council members signed up. Sutherland was not keen on political involvement saying it’s something “the community needs to do for itself.”
If you want to take part in the orientation session, you can email her at [email protected]
