In a recent op-ed, Susan Reis, the state policy advocate for Ohio with the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), emphasized the importance of cultivating genuine relationships to foster meaningful change in communities. Reis, who also serves as a tri-chair of Greater Cleveland Congregations (GCC), shared her insights on how authentic connections can lead to grassroots activism and social progress.
Understanding the Power of Listening
Reis argues that building relationships is not about agreement or consensus but begins with the essential act of listening. She encourages individuals to engage with others by hearing their stories, experiences, and concerns. This approach promotes understanding beyond mere persuasion. Listening fosters a shared recognition of values, challenges, and aspirations, paving the way for collaboration across various lines of difference, such as socioeconomic status, race, and religion.
The process of listening is crucial for establishing trust, allowing people to move beyond assumptions and engage in constructive dialogue. Reis stresses that this understanding does not eliminate differences but rather creates a platform for collaboration and collective action.
Investing Time in Relationships
Reis acknowledges that while forming new connections can be challenging, the human need for connection makes it a worthwhile endeavor. She emphasizes that trust takes time to develop and cannot be rushed. In today’s fast-paced world, where efficiency often reigns supreme, the slow and steady approach to relationship building can feel frustrating. Yet, she asserts that real change rarely occurs on a deadline; it unfolds gradually through consistent effort and engagement.
Moreover, Reis identifies the importance of simplicity in building relationships. Often, the most impactful actions stem from small gestures. Simple acts, such as showing up, checking in, or engaging in casual conversations without an agenda, can lead to deeper understanding and collaboration. These interactions help individuals identify allies when action is needed and highlight the significance of merely being present.
Long-Term Commitment to Connection
Reis also highlights that strong relationships extend beyond the completion of a single project or campaign. By investing in people rather than just focusing on outcomes, individuals can continue to nurture connections that yield long-term benefits. This sustained engagement transforms temporary victories into lasting capacity, resulting in more robust organizations and resilient communities.
Encouraging readers to take immediate action, Reis challenges individuals to connect with someone new this week. She suggests exchanging contact information with neighbors, fellow volunteers, or local leaders, and inviting them for a coffee or a virtual conversation. The goal is to foster genuine dialogue without pressure or agenda, allowing for the discovery of shared interests and a collective desire to improve the community.
For those interested in contributing their perspectives, Reis invites submissions of opinion essays on regional or general interest topics. Interested writers can send their 500-word essays to Ann Norman at [email protected], accompanied by a brief biography and headshot.
Through her advocacy work, Reis continues to demonstrate that the foundation of social change lies in the relationships we build, reminding us that meaningful connections can lead to significant community transformation.
