Engage, resist, transform: the essential role of community practice
Authors: Jan M. Ivery, Cheryl Hyde, Amy Krings and Mary L. Ohmer
About the study:
In today’s world, efforts to limit DEI initiatives threaten progress toward fairness and equality. This editorial highlights how community engagement, such as working closely with neighbors, local groups and organizations, can push back against these challenges. By showcasing research article examples featuring intergenerational programs, creative theater projects, worker advocacy and more, the authors highlight how people can come together to solve problems, strengthen connections and build more inclusive communities.
Key insights:
- Community engagement can protect human rights and fight against inequality.
- Working together builds trust, connection and stronger communities.
- Creative approaches like theater, youth programs and advocacy empower participants and amplify voices.
- Addressing barriers, like unequal access or structural obstacles, is key to making engagement fair and effective.