Katrelia Bryant

"To continue being the city of firsts. We could be the city of firsts again. As far as making a lot of changes not only in clean energy, but the best bus system, and so much more. Making bridges that will close the divide, make things equitable you know. Everyone living at the same level, that would be a beautiful picture here in Springfield. The city of houses, the city of homes, the first city with no slum lords. Everything just looking beautiful."

What advice would you give to others who want to start getting involved? 

"Well, I would say go to some of the city council meetings. They're open to the public. I would say, get in touch with some of the city officials about issues you care about. It would be easy to sit in some of the meetings the city council has, or some of the school committee meetings, any of the meetings that have to do with the city. Also attend community meetings and you'll get an idea of the problems and possible solutions, make connections. I think that's a good way to start."

What issues concern you the most? 

"Well, policing is one thing. Police being a part of the community and not feeling like they're the enemy of the community. They need to train police officers to be friendlier to community members. Community centers are a need in the community, not where kids have to go across town to get to one, but near where they live. So when they come out of school, can do their homework, arts and crafts, play table tennis, video games, board games, whatever. They need to put more emphasis on that. You know, focus more on that sort of thing. Another issue is making the city mobility friendly. Since hip surgery, it is much harder to get around the city. It would be much better for me personally if I did not have to depend on others to get to where I need to go." 

How do you stay involved in advocating even when life is already full of challenges? 

"I've always done a lot of volunteer work here in the City of Springfield. I worked in a lot of different areas. The community has been something that I've always been interested in, the wellbeing of my community and the wellbeing of others. I've worked with women in recovery, and that was all about helping people, helping to build lives, helping people get their lives back, reunifying families. I'm working now with Live Well Springfield, and it is a good opportunity for me to help build community and build with people. Opportunities for helping always present themselves, and I do it whenever I can."