Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is today announcing the launch of Neighbors Talking to Neighbors (N2N), a new City initiative aimed at strengthening community connections via open, respectful conversation, as ongoing cultural turmoil leads to increased feelings of isolation, division, and fear. 

The dialogue series will be led by Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and will offer a series of facilitated dialogues, trainings, and panel discussions focused on building understanding across different lived experiences. 

“As forces across the country try to divide us, Somerville is choosing a different path: one rooted in empathy, compassion, and community,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “My aim for our Neighbors Talking to Neighbors series is to give residents the tools and space to have honest conversations, build relationships across differences, and make our community stronger together.” 

The pilot series will focus on four pressing topics to both Somerville and the US at large: 

• Race 
• Immigration 
• LGBTQIA+ Community 
• Interfaith Relations 

Session topics were identified based on feedback from multiple City departments and partners, including the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs, Somerville Public Library, Somerville Public Schools, and the Somerville Police Department. 

How It Works 

Each of the four sessions will be professionally facilitated and open to all residents. Participants will agree to shared community guidelines designed to foster a respectful, welcoming environment. All sessions are free to attend, but registration is required. Some topics will have separate times for youth and adults to facilitate age-appropriate conversations. 

Upcoming Dialogue Sessions: 

• Session Topic: Race 
  • Date: Wednesday, May 7 
  • Place: Virtual  
  • Time:  
    • Youth Session: 3 – 4:30 p.m. Click to Register.
    • Adult Session: 6:30 – 8 p.m. Click to Register.

• Session Topic: Immigration 
  • Date: Friday, May 9 
  • Place: Virtual 
  • Time:  
    • Youth Session: 3 – 4:30 p.m. Click to Register. 
    • Adult Session: 6:30 – 8 p.m. Click to Register.

• Session Topic: LGBTQIA+  
  • Date: Wednesday, May 14 
  • Place: Virtual 
  • Time: 
    • Youth Session: 3 – 4:30 p.m. Click to Register.
    • Adult Session: 6:30 – 8 p.m. Click to Register.

• Session Topic: Interfaith Relations 
  • Date: Wednesday, May 28 
  • Place: Somerville High School Highland Forum (81 Highland Ave.) 
  • Time: 7:30 – 9 p.m. Click to Register. 

About Neighbors Talking to Neighbors 

Neighbors Talking to Neighbors is part of Somerville’s long-term commitment to fostering a connected, compassionate, and inclusive community. For more information, contact the Somerville Department of Racial and Social Justice at rsj@somervillema.gov.