Zoetermeer Connects: Stronger in times of division
On December 12, the first city conversation on 'connecting' took place in Zoetermeer. Together with over 75 residents, mayor Michel Bezuijen, alderman Véronique Frinking and a large representation of involved organizations, we talked about connecting, listening to each other and having a real conversation at a time when so much is going on. In a society where a lot is happening: think of the election results, conflicts abroad and feelings of inequality.
Panel discussion
Vida Niazian skillfully guided the evening. She led the panel discussion, which consisted of the mayor and residents from different backgrounds: Shamier Madhar, Marianne van Praag, Colin Knoester, Nisrine Kellouh and Kees van der Riet. In a safe and open atmosphere, residents shared their experiences. Experiences of pain, emotions and observations in our city. The diversity of voices and experiences was visible. Many unique stories were shared about hopes, concerns and resilience and the question of how we can continue to build bridges together when polarization becomes so close.
Different perspectives
The evening showed that connection begins with listening to each other. Even if you have different views or opinions and even if the conversation may be difficult. Exactly in that exchange of perspectives and feelings, there was room to hear, understand and connect with each other.
Presentation MOED
Actor Mahfoud Mokaddem took us into the experiences of young people. He played part of his performance MOED, a piece by city company PS|Theater. Mahfoud showed how today's youth deal with big questions of our time. How do you stay connected to them even when the world seems so overwhelming at times? There is no one answer to this question, but the first step is going back to the basics: "Being Human. A human-to-human conversation, an open conversation with curiosity and full of opportunity.
Inclusive, safe and strong Zoetermeer
This meeting is a start of many city conversations that will take place. All with the same goal: Connecting and building bridges between our residents for an inclusive, safe and strong Zoetermeer. Because one thing became clear after this evening: We want to keep talking to each other in Zoetermeer.
If you would like to respond, please email stadsgesprek@zoetermeer.nl.
