A radical hope that everyday people… can make wise decisions about how their government works

On the first day of the Civic Assembly, a CivicLex staff member asked a group of 10 people to raise our hands if we knew our city councilmember’s name. Only three people raised their hands. We were expected to suggest changes to our city charter in a few short weeks, but most of us knew basically nothing about Lexington city government. 

Even as an assembly member, the idea of local-government-novices making these decisions made me nervous. What did we know? Why was my opinion valuable? And, perhaps most importantly, why should Lexington residents trust this random group of people – who know very little about policy or government – to suggest consequential changes to our city charter? 

After 18 hours of meetings, I know my fellow assembly members a bit better: One member’s daughter is getting married in Connecticut in just a few weeks. Another wears flip-flops with every outfit, even with dress pants. After our first meeting, another stole a fidget toy from the self-care table for his grandson (but maybe don’t tell CivicLex staff). 

And even though most of us are not naturally interested in local government, we listen well and ask good questions. We feel the responsibility of this task and have spent the energy necessary to educate ourselves on council compensation and charter review.

This assembly taught me a valuable lesson: When everyday folks are given information and time, most of them will develop thoughtful and valuable opinions about local government. In creating this assembly, CivicLex acted on a radical hope that everyday people – not just experts, academics, or elected officials – can make wise decisions about how their government works.

I’m thankful for the opportunity to be at the center of the action. This is hopeful work, and I’m eager to see where our deliberations land.