Causeway Challenge II:
Applications open April 30 — May 19
Written by Jaya Todai, edited by Chelsea Conrad
Two months ago, Dr. Ken Chilton declared that “inequality is the new normal” for Chattanooga’s schools, businesses and communities. We read the data. Part of us couldn’t believe it. Part of us wasn’t surprised, either. Beyond race, Chilton’s statement also applies to our economic divide, with 27% of Chattanoogans living below the poverty line. And to women in Chattanooga who experience the widest income gaps in our city. Even in our developing innovation district, we see a struggle to recruit and retain diversity among stakeholders and young entrepreneurs.
But the words that brand our city follow a different pattern; “gig,” “scenic,” and even “best” promise a place pushing forward. Take a look at our nationally recognized public library, our neighborhood-based solutions to energy efficiency or our Teacherpreneurs. Chattanooga is a city of thinkers and doers. How can we use that game-changing spirit to pursue a different normal?
We’ve learned a lot in the last year at Causeway, and we’re still learning from the hundreds of folks who responded to last year’s Connectivity Challenge, who shared a meal with us at One Table, and who came through our doors every day because they believed in shaking up that Chattanooga “normal.” These are the people working to give this city new nicknames: “the diverse city,” and even, “the inclusive city.”
To those folks, we’re listening, and we’d like to give you something more–our resources, our time, and this question:How can we make Chattanooga a city where people from all backgrounds live, work, play and learn together?This is an open call for submissions to our next Causeway Challenge.
Until Chattanooga speaks up for diversity, we’re at a loss. Research shows that mixed-income neighborhoods make for safer environments with more opportunities for low-income families. Companies across the nation confirm that diversity is profitable. And studies show that when our kids play or learn with other kids who look, think, and experience life differently from them, they are more prepared to tackle real issues when they graduate.
So how do we create more diverse environments in Chattanooga? Rachel Krinsky says “diversity takes more than an open door.” Even the small decisions we make as neighbors, city leaders, educators, innovators, students, and parents directly affect every zip code, every Chattanoogan.
We want to hear about your ideas for change. Applications will be open from April 30 through May 19 at causeway.org/challenge. Up to five winners will receive $10,000 to support themselves and their project, as well as a 4-month experience in Causeway’s incubation program where they will test and strengthen their idea.
