Circle 1: How to create healthier physical spaces in JXN

    • Problems
      • Parks, open areas, green infrastructure
      • Make public spaces more friendly for neurodivergent people & those with mental health issues
      • More resourceful use of existing infrastructure
      • Cleaner communities (less trash and dilapidated buildings)
      • Property Value
      • Unofficial community centers
      • Larger art spaces
      • Gardens
      • People need to feel safe
    • Solutions:
      • Invite city leadership & lobby for funding to green space – connecting to businesses
      • Change zoning laws for walkable spaces
      • Organized neighborhood gatherings
      • Sidewalks
      • Raising standards for business buildings
      • Advertising green spaces
      • HOA’s
      • Upholding city ordinances

    The mission of the Mississippi Free Press, a new nonprofit journalism website and multimedia network that launched in March 2020, is to publish deep public-interest reporting into causes of and solutions to the social, political and structural challenges facing all Mississippians and their communities. Mississippians need to know each other across regions and share our challenges and solutions despite geographic and other differences. We are introducing Mississippians to each other through our deep accountability reporting and compelling people-focused storytelling, and by convening online and physical “solutions circles,” using our statewide networks to ensure inclusivity and representation.