By Calais Walker
When Molly Balison, Editor-in-Chief of Word on the Street told me I could come in to be a part of the WOTS editorial meeting at Interfaith Sanctuary I had some fear in the back of my mind. It was the normal anxiety of going to a new space, meeting new people, and being a part of a meeting I wasn’t familiar with, but also the fear of walking down streets most people avoid and purposely interacting with the homeless community of the area. My entire year has included a project that is based on trying to get people to break stereotypes and stigmas. I chose this because I’ve seen the large effects the public’s fear has on this community and I knew I wasn’t alone in this uneducated fear. I was excited either way to join the meeting and I always try to do things even though I’m scared.
I got to Interfaith and was greeted with smiles, handshakes, and a welcoming space. Everyone excitedly introduced themselves. People read their amazing and vulnerable writing. We had a conversation about politics and how they are going to affect this organization and the people a part of it. It was so insightful to be a part of because I had read about everything happening to interfaith before attending the meetings but it’s nothing like having Executive Director Jodi Peterson-Stigers explain it to you while surrounded by the people it’s going to affect.
I was already saddened and mad at the anger that’s being directed at the Interfaith community just by reading things online but hearing personal stories made it worse. One of the people in the meeting even had coffee thrown at them through a car window. Each meeting I have attended I’ve left feeling hopeful and happy. So much laughter happens in the Word on the Street meetings. We always end up having conversations about everything under the sun. I love hearing people give their ideas and ask questions. Word on the Street is not only an outlet for people struggling but it’s also giving you a chance to hear their voices.
Jodi said something that stuck with me, “You are the most authentic people I know, I wish other people could know you like I do.” This is a great way to describe how much I’ve loved witnessing these meetings. I hope people become more educated and empathetic towards this community as Boise grows as a city because they aren’t going away. I’m giving you a call to action to be empathic.