New Video Series: "Alabama Talks Back"

Our new video series, Alabama Talks Back, highlights the creative strategies being developed by community leaders and everyday Alabamians as they adapt to the challenges that come with social distancing.

Social connectedness is important to Alabamians. As a state we consistently rank high in indicators of social connectedness, like talking with neighbors and exchanging favors with neighbors; activities that often require face-to-face, in-person interaction. As we abide by orders to stay at home, many of our typical forms of engagement and social connection are impossible. Routines of grabbing dinner with friends, meeting colleagues for lunch, and attending in-person public meetings are suddenly no longer an option.

We know Alabamians are resilient and are finding creative ways to adapt to our new, hopefully short-term, reality. During this unprecedented time, we are asking ourselves “How can we stay socially connected and continue contributing to a vibrant civic life while practicing social distancing for the health of our neighbors and loved ones?”

To answer that question, the David Mathews Center for Civic Life is launching a new video series on social connectedness during a time of social distancing! The video series, entitled Alabama Talks Back, will feature Alabamians who are finding creative ways to stay connected and to contribute to civic life in their community during this time of social distancing. You can check out our first episode below. We hope these short video conversations will encourage you!

What are you doing to stay connected while practicing social distancing? Do you have a neighbor or friend who has found unique ways to be civically engaged during this challenging time? If you’d like to share your story with us, feel free to reach out to our Operations Coordinator, Haley Pascal (hpascal@mathewscenter.org). We would love to spotlight more Alabamians making a difference in response to COVID-19!

Written by Executive Director Cristin F. Brawner