Keeping the Community Civically Engaged

Civic engagement refers to any individual or group activity that addresses issues of public concern. For example, acts of civic engagement can include voting, volunteering, or participating in group activities. But what does civic engagement really look like in the Town of Brookline? 

Over the course of 2020, BIG has worked incredibly hard to provide the public with as much information as possible during a time of tremendous need. As in-person events switched to remote operations, we made it a point to have all live and recorded events broadcasted through our cable channels, YouTube channel, and Facebook page, in hopes of maintaining or increasing previous levels of civic participation. Malcolm Doldron, a member of the Commission for Diversity Inclusion and Community Relations, noted the impact BIG has had across Brookline:

“BIG sits at the intersection of Brookline residents, businesses, schools, and Town Government, providing access to critical resources to make civic engagement possible.  From amplifying voices, stories, news, and events, to educational, technological, and logistical support, BIG plays a central and indispensable role in bringing the Brookline community together.  This was true prior to the Covid-19, but the global pandemic has truly underscored the many ways BIG engages, connects, and strengthens our Town, by facilitating meaningful discussion, collaboration, and participation in open government.” 

BIG has TRIPLED our production of live and recorded content over the past year and the adaptations of 2020 are fully anticipated to become the new normal. The BIG production team has already been working closely with the Town in order to meet the technical requirements to ensure a smooth transition to broadcasting hybrid meetings. It is becoming clear that BIG’s services will only continue to expand and, with the power of BIG’s media coverage, more residents of Brookline will have the opportunity to engage and become more involved in town-related matters.

If you are interested in becoming more involved, remember that anyone can join an organization in town that interests them. Click the following link for more information about Brookline’s boards and commissions and how to apply: 

https://www.brooklinema.gov/165/Boards-Commissions

- The BIG Team