Speaker of the Week: Kate Conetta

Kate Conetta is Connecticut native, born and raised in Bethel but currently works in Danbury. She is a local political organizer. Her political participation has only started recently with the year 2016 being the catalyst. She, in turn, wanted to make a difference locally because she knew that is where she would see the most change. She works for Danbury Area Justice network. The most important part in which I grabbed from our talk with her is "you need to participate in government to get government to do what you want it to do." And, I think that is the defining point to her synopsis of her own career in defending the right to democracy in her own realm. Action Together, was one of her many platforms of political activism and served as the framework for her Pantsuit America affiliation. However, Danbury Area Justice Network was pivotal in it's diversity. She comes from a place which she advocates for immigrant affairs, LGBTQ rights, and most importantly education. "Education is the new village model," she says. So, Conetta works heavily with the Board of Education having a seat there. She dedicates all her time and energy into these sectors as a main player with the purpose of seeing the change she wants to see in world being carried out first hand.

Based off the questions asked by students, she gives way to find motivation in engaging in circles with regard to the political scene not only for networking but for social and personal growth and enjoyment. Continuing from the motivation, one must realize it is a marathon not a race. When engaging with other diverse groups of people, one must also try to find common ground with them with goals or whatever. It becomes easier to work as a team or group and less of a competition over who is more right. These relationships are important to forge equity. It is important to reach those goals both parties are setting. She also gives way to the benefits of social media via a greater outreach and finding support from a broader pool. However, social media can also distract from the core of what activists and advocates are trying to. The most important message can be drowned in fluff basically. Sometime one has to talk someone who may not actually know what they are talking about but are adamant about refuting you. Lastly, she makes a point to answer if now have the divides calmed down due to a new political sphere. Also, she gives way to struggles of the education system with funds and how quality education can be given to all types of kids. Unfortunately, the inexplicable trouble with taxation and outrage has lead the Board to not be able to recover. And she called us to find what in our community we cared about and liked. Through there you will find starting groups, and truly learn to become part of the decision making.

The system of government is by the people, for the people. Therefore, the people should do their best in participating to advocate for themselves and the issues that matter. Our voices matter and can be heard if we utilize the resources around.