OneRouge Community Check-In: Week 253

Rouge Reach: New Voices, New Vision

This week’s OneRouge call picked up right where we left off, diving into a big question: What are you willing to risk, disrupt, or let go of to help build the kind of community we say we want?

People shared openly about what their cities need most—things like empathy, accountability, respect, and stronger support systems. Many reflected on the personal barriers that get in the way, like burnout, fear of speaking up, or the challenge of juggling work and family. Time, relationships, and even financial comfort came up as things folks are already sacrificing or are willing to give up in service of something bigger.

The conversation also touched on growing concerns around SB 15, a proposed law that could punish people for helping or supporting immigrant communities. It was a clear reminder that the work we do matters and that silence can have real consequences.

One voice summed it up perfectly: “Courage is contagious. Thank you for bringing yours today.”

We hope to see you next Friday as we keep building on these important conversations. In the meantime, you can check out the full notes, share your upcoming events, and take action through this week’s newsletter.

Notes

OneRouge Weekly Call – Meeting Notes 

Date: May 9, 2025 

Theme: “What Are We Willing to Risk for Real Community Change?”

Overview:

This week’s OneRouge call continued the deep dive into community-led dialogue centered around the Nine Drivers of Poverty, picking up from last week’s breakouts. The goal: move beyond conversation into courageous reflection, relationship-building, and real solutions. Participants were asked to share where they’re from and one word that reflects what their city needs right now. Responses ranged from collaboration and respect to mental health resources, accountability, and unity.

Key Themes Discussed:

• Empathy Mapping & Design Thinking: One participant shared how these tools, often used in tech design, can be adapted for understanding community needs. These methods help clarify what people say vs. what they truly feel or need.

• Discomfort in Advocacy Spaces: Many shared the fear, imposter syndrome, and scarcity mindset that can come with speaking up, particularly in legislative or power-driven spaces. A powerful anecdote about fathers advocating at the Capitol highlighted this.

• Unspoken Community Conversations: Attendees were invited to name issues often avoided or sugarcoated. Topics included:

  • Shrinking resources and increased desperation due to climate impacts and economic instability.

  • The criminalization of homelessness.

  • Cultural invisibility and lack of recognition for immigrant communities.

  • Systemic obstacles fathers face in parenting and family law.

  • Restrictive legislative proposals and their broader social consequences.

Breakout Discussion Prompt:

“What’s one thing you’re willing to risk, disrupt, or let go to help build the kind of community we say we want — and what’s been holding you back?”

Participants named time, relationships, financial comfort, and personal safety as things they are already or willing to risk. Barriers included burnout, lack of childcare, fear of judgment, and navigating systems that devalue community work. The breakouts provided space to network, reflect, and recommit to action.

Closing Reflections & Announcements:

• The importance of consistent advocacy across both personal and professional spheres was emphasized.

• Multiple community members highlighted current legislation (specifically SB 15) that could criminalize immigrant support work. Advocacy is urgently needed — email your state senators to oppose this bill.

• The session closed with this affirmation: “Courage is contagious. Thank you for bringing yours today.”

Next Call: Friday, May 16, 2025 Reminder: Drop all community announcements, events, or action items in the chat for inclusion in the weekly newsletter.

Links

Community Announcements