Small Steps to Create Togetherness

By Kayla Gaffney, LMSW, Terry Reilly Health Services

Spring is just around the corner and is sure to inspire growth and the opportunity for change. It’s also a great time to reflect on how we can foster justice, fairness, and equity in our community.

True togetherness begins with honoring the value of every single person and committing to actions that support fairness and inclusion. Building a just community doesn’t require grand gestures. In fact, true togetherness simply starts with small, intentional steps. This could mean advocating for a neighbor in need, sharing resources with others, or speaking out against injustice when you see it.

Another powerful way to combat hatred in our neighborhoods is to utilize language carefully, knowing that the words we choose can either divide or unite. Language can be a tool for healing, inclusion, and understanding, but it can also unintentionally reinforce stereotypes, biases, or exclusion. By speaking with kindness and intentionality, we can create a safer neighborhood for everyone. This means avoiding harmful labels, reframing divisive phrases, and focusing on words that uplift and empower. For example, instead of pointing out differences in a way that separates us, we can celebrate diversity as a strength that enriches our community.

It also means taking time to listen, understand different perspectives, and challenge biases, both in ourselves and in the systems around us. When we create space for every voice to be heard and every person to feel valued, we build a community where everyone can thrive.

“When I liberate myself, I liberate others. If you don’t speak out, ain’t nobody going to
speak out for you.”

— Fannie Lou Hamer, noted activist in the 1960’s for voting, civil, and
women’s rights