Autocracy depends on the destruction of trust and any sense of community, shared purpose, solidarity or destiny. It requires that people preemptively surrender, and withdraw into their own families and homes.

Unfortunately, increased social isolation in the wake of the pandemic and pervasiveness of the thin sense of community on social media lay the groundwork for autocracy. Social isolation also makes us less resilient to economic shocks and disasters.

Fortunately, most Eugene neighborhoods have chartered neighborhood associations, so the social infrastructure exists and is there for you. Neighborhood associations are open to anyone who lives, owns property or has a business in a neighborhood.

That means anyone can get involved.

Participating in your neighborhood association is a great way to meet your neighbors, learn about community groups and city services, and work on projects and issues of concern to you and your neighbors. For example, Jefferson Westside Neighbors has work parties in JWN’s parks, sponsors emergency preparedness and historic preservation groups. The group built – and manage – a dog off-leash area and a small park. It created a mural at Charnel Mulligan Park, too.

Many neighborhoods also have email newsletters for the latest hyperlocal news. In addition, Lookout has daily neighborhood newsletters at no cost.

Now is the time to pull together, to have each other’s backs and create the communities, and build the future we want to live in. Small “d” democracy is waiting for you right outside your front door – all you have to do is step through it.

Get out, take control and get involved.

Ted M. Coopman
Eugene