Councilor Mejia offers resolution to focus on strengths of Bostonians instead of deficits

Language surrounding communities that have historically been resilient in the face of systemic inequity has typically focused on deficits instead of strengths, often referring to them as “marginalized,” “otherized,” “at-risk,” and/or “in crisis.” ​Studies such as the The Olweus Bullying Prevention Programand the Incredible Years have shown the positive impacts of leading with strengths instead of deficits in order to achieve real change.



An asset-based approach can be defined as one that focuses on empowering communities and individuals through highlighting and strengthening their diversity, culture, and strengths. Councilor Mejia believes that the ways in which the City Council addresses particular communities in Boston indicates not only how the Body views these communities, but guides how communities see themselves and inspires communities to step into power.



She said, “When I look around my community and the communities close to me I don’t see vulnerable people. I see strong, resilient communities who continue to thrive despite adversity. If we want to lead as one Boston we need to address communities in ways that uplift what makes us stronger.” She continued, “I believe there is always strength in our struggle and we are not as hopeless and as helpless as people have been led to believe.”