As we settle into 2024, my concerns about the future of our nation loom large. The American Dream, which for some is a beacon of hope, seems elusive for far too many. A brighter future for America lies in the revitalization of our urban centers, the beating hearts of our nation. When communities are empowered with equitable access to opportunities, they thrive. Numerous communities, especially those of color, have suffered decades of underinvestment. This is why, at The American City Coalition (TACC), which I have led since 2022, we work with public and private partners to combat the historical impact of racial and class disparities: our approach involves community building, strategic investment, ecosystem alignment and policy enactment.

At the core of TACC’s work is community building, grounded in understanding the unique cultural, social and historical contexts of each neighborhood. We engage with and earn the trust of residents, families, anchor institutions and small business owners by listening to and documenting firsthand accounts of barriers to substantive opportunities; then we work on solutions together. TACC’s Nubian Square Market Analysis is an example of this approach: using the community’s recommendations, we launched Savor the Square, an open-air market that supports neighborhood entrepreneurs, boosts foot traffic and serves as a new community amenity.

Despite living in proximity to in-demand jobs in sectors fueled by large federal, state and local investments, many talented residents in communities of color have not benefited equally from Boston’s and the commonwealth’s strong economic growth and overall prosperity. Thus, TACC’s strategic investment focuses on reducing barriers to economic inclusion and creating an environment conducive to communal retention, wholeness and shared prosperity.

A communal ecosystem is critical for revitalization; it demands institutional interconnectedness, breaking down silos. Government, businesses, nonprofits and community organizations must collaborate to create a strong communal network that efficiently channels resources and information for holistic restoration. Through Roxbury Worx, TACC is fostering a broader talent ecosystem of organizations in the same geographic areas, creating a healthy partnership among the community, academic institutions, industry and training/apprenticeship programs to reduce the barrier of navigating complex workforce development systems and engaging more residents in meaningful jobs.

Policy intentionality is the linchpin facilitating the restoration of American cities. These policies should incentivize public-private investment, fostering economic growth and job creation without displacement. Policy decision-making processes must include and be responsive to the documented needs of communities of color to more effectively operationalize equity and ensure that the resurgence of cities benefits residents who have been excluded from economic prosperity.

My hope for 2024 is anchored in the restoration of our communities, the revitalization of American cities. The salvation of America lies in investing in its cities, dismantling systemic barriers and committing to collaborative, inclusive community development — a collective dream for a new America that embraces progress, access and opportunity for all.