Washington, D.C. — A new episode of the CitiesSpeak podcast from the National League of Cities (NLC) features a panel discussion with four local leaders on how local governments are leading America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
Moderated by NLC President and Louisville, KY, Councilmember Kevin Kramer, the conversation includes Mayor Cherelle Parker, Philadelphia, PA; Mayor Yemi Mobolade, Colorado Springs, CO; Mayor Deanna Reed, Harrisonburg, VA; and City Council President Zeke Cohen, Baltimore, MD.
The episode explores how cities, towns and villages are using the America 250 milestone to strengthen civic pride, tell fuller community histories and create opportunities for residents to reconnect with one another and their local communities. Panelists discuss neighborhood celebrations, storytelling initiatives, economic opportunity, arts and culture and how local leaders can help address what several speakers described as a growing “hope deficit” across the country.
Highlights from the Conversation
On why America 250 matters at the local level:
“Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, as we celebrate our semi-quincentennial, we get a chance to allow America at its core to remember who we are… no matter your race, class, socioeconomic status, zip code, religion, sexual orientation, or identity, our democracy, American democracy, means you.” — Mayor Cherelle Parker, Philadelphia, Pa.
On telling a fuller story of America through local history:
“True patriotism means knowing and wrestling with your entire history… Even the parts that you may not be proud of.” — City Council President Zeke Cohen, Baltimore, Md.
On restoring civic pride and connection through community celebrations:
“This moment gives us a moment to just pause, reflect on our history, not just the past, but where we are going… This is a moment to renew hope, to renew a sense of civic pride.” — Mayor Yemi Mobolade, Colorado Springs, Colo.
On building communities where everyone belongs:
“If we say we’re the friendly city, we’re the friendly city for everyone. We say we’re a welcoming city, we’re a welcoming city for everyone.” — Mayor Deanna Reed, Harrisonburg, Va.
The CitiesSpeak podcast features conversations with leaders and policy experts on the biggest issues facing America’s cities, towns and villages.
Listen to the full conversation, also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.
About CitiesSpeak
Each episode of NLC’s podcast, CitiesSpeak with Clarence Anthony, dives into a critical issue facing local leaders today, featuring conversations with elected leaders and policy experts from across the country. The podcast is a relaxed and entertaining resource for local policymakers looking for ideas and information to bring back to their communities. The podcast is hosted by NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence Anthony, who previously served as mayor of South Bay, Florida, for more than two decades.
New episodes of CitiesSpeak are available on all major podcasting platforms and on YouTube. If you have feedback for the show or ideas for future guests, email us at citiesspeakpodcast@nlc.org. Happy listening!
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