Blog by Rosie Helson (Intern)
“I’m so excited I could wee, it’s the Queen’s Jubilee!”
… screams the commemorative sloganned teatowel. Just one of many, many joyful souvenirs of Britishness one can now purchase in order to facilitate a rather fanciful celebration this weekend.
There are indeed a lot of probably not-so-sustainably-produced yet ubiquitous mugs, flags, bags and glad-rags now available. Besides this and an extra bit of holiday, what else are the next few days delivering to our nation?
Well, given that most will be having a small, to medium, to large “get together”, I would argue that this long week end equates to a huge explosion of community spirit across our land. I am not talking about a Pimms Cooperative, although that also may regarded by many as a jolly good idea. Whether a committed royalist or not really, this is a fabulous time to celebrate all things British, together.
Hooray!
Proudly baking a cake and sharing it with others at a street party or ‘big lunch’ is a rather lovely way to generate a sense of belonging and to meet one’s neighbours.
Wouldn’t you agree? Quite.
Working together to source local ingredients, buying in bulk and dividing among the masses (avoiding waste in the process) guarantees a right royal time. Many streets have been planning their party well in advance.
Community Engagement Managers take note.
Give a group a theme, a deadline and a reason to celebrate. I’ll eat my hat if they can’t pull something wonderful together themselves. Have faith, oh Community Engagement Manager. Above all – make it fun! Long may these community collaborations, reminiscent of the happy days of yesteryear, continue.
So, chin up! Make yourself, your friends and family a nice cup of tea. Now get planning.
Jubilations to one and all!