Example Participatory Budgeting Outreach Email
Hello dear neighbors —
Some of you know I have been working from home on equity and justice issues in our city. I have been volunteering for the Black Brilliance Research Project (BBRP). Budgeting is in place and they are working with the city and amassing an amazing array of proposed solutions for equitable safety and policing in our city’s neighborhoods. Your voice and ideas are important!
The budgeting proposals can be voted on by everyone. You don’t have to be a registered voter — just live or work in Seattle. Even kids can vote. As I understand it, the process will be similar to what L.B. and Neighborhood Greenways did a couple years ago. This resulted in the enhanced cross walk in our neighborhood, among other projects.
Right now you can participate — and I urge you to do so — by completing a very short Needs Assessment Survey. Also, you are encouraged to spread the word and share this with friends and colleagues.
Though the project prioritizes Black and other communities that have been systematically harmed by policies, ALL people in Seattle are encouraged to participate. The idea is to invest in solutions that get at the heart of the problems that confront us collectively, preventing harm and building justice for every one of us. (We like to think of it as PB&J — Participatory Budgeting and Justice ;-)
For more perspective, you can watch this four minute animation about the different impacts of police on different communities:
http://bit.ly/divesttoreinvestvideo
I am happy to talk with anyone about this. I can provide you with more detailed information, maybe even figure out how to set up a zoom call if folks are interested in meeting online. Again, please complete the survey, then spread the word!
All the best,
Pennie
