By: CA Staff Writer | Feb 12, 2025
Clarksdale, MS – The Clarksdale Advocate sat down with Kim Seals to discuss how everyday citizens can be part of change in our community. In a time when challenges in our community seem to be multiplying, Kim Seals is calling for a shift in how citizens engage with their government and other community leaders. Seals believes that people are rightfully frustrated over issues like public safety, infrastructure decay, and environmental concerns, but she is urging residents to move beyond complaining and actively participate in the solutions.
She believes that the current landscape, both nationally and locally, reveals a harsh reality: while citizens often express dissatisfaction with government performance, very few take the important step of contributing to meaningful change. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between our citizens and government.
“Complaining can be satisfying, but it rarely leads to progress,” said Seals. “We need citizens to step up, share their ideas, and work with the government to create the communities they envision. Government can do more when we have active, engaged citizens.”
A study conducted by the Pew Research Center revealed that only 39% of Americans feel their vote impacts the government. Seals says this is absolutely not true. The lack of involvement by citizens has led to stagnation in identifying critical solutions and addressing local issues. Changing mindsets is essential for revitalizing communities. “We must move from a community of criticisms and complaints to one of contributions and collaboration,” stated Seals. “When citizens take ownership of their communities, the government is empowered to act more effectively.”
“Regular town halls and other public forums are great opportunities to assist in fostering community involvement and collaboration, but the government must also look for innovative and better ways to be responsive to the needs and concerns of the community. We must realize that sitting back and waiting for change doesn’t work,” said Seals. “We need to come together, voice our concerns, share ideas, brainstorm collectively, and work with our city leaders to make change happen.”
This initiative can result in increased funding for parks, improved public infrastructure, and greater attention to community safety. “When our community comes together, it sends a strong message that we care about our community and are willing to be part of the change we complain about,” Seals added.
Changing attitudes and behaviors takes time and a concerted effort. The first step, however, is abandoning the notion that the government alone can solve all problems. “It’s a partnership,” said Seals, “between government and the community. We need citizens to engage, volunteer, and advocate for the changes they want to see. Together, we can achieve much more.”
My call to action is simple: the citizens of Clarksdale must recognize their role in the democratic process and the impact they can have on this community. Whether through participating in town hall meetings, sharing ideas with city leaders, participating in local initiatives, or simply voicing opinions in constructive ways, every action counts and is important in invoking change.
“As our community faces complex issues that require innovative solutions, the time for change is now. By shifting from a mindset of complaint to collaboration and togetherness, citizens can help build a stronger, more resilient Clarksdale,” Seals says. “This is a very clear and simple message: get off the sidelines, be part of the solution, and together, we can create a brighter future for Clarksdale.”
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