[OMS_MANAGERS] Unifying communities during times of tension

[Megan Dompe]

You are both very welcome!

Megan Dompe
Director of Coburg Main Street
PO Box 2875
Coburg, Oregon 97408
(541)913-6570

"Start where you are,
Use what you have,
Do what you can."
- Arthur Ashe
[image: Outlook-oqfl5f5k.png]


On Wed, Feb 4, 2026 at 10:02 PM Executive Director <
executivedirector at downtownmedford.org> wrote:

> Megan
> This is great, thank you!
>
> Annie
>
> *Did you miss the February Newsletter... read here
> <https://mailchi.mp/downtownmedford/dma_feb2026newsletter>*
>
>
> *Annie Jenkins, Executive Director*
>
> Downtown Medford Association
>
> Mobile | 541-941-5204
>
> Email | executivedirector <http://goog_2121433655>@downtownmedford.org
>
>
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>
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>
> On Wed, Feb 4, 2026 at 1:27 PM Megan Dompe <coburgmainstreet at gmail.com>
> wrote:
>
>> Hi Everyone!
>>
>>  I wanted to share with you a list I compiled after researching some good
>> tips for community unification in times of political tension and conflict.
>> These are really divisive times all over, Coburg is no exception. Given our
>> leadership in community outreach, welcoming diverse voices, and
>> inclusive place making… I feel this messaging is aligned with the work we
>> are doing while making sure to not engage in any political action or
>> leaning statements.
>>
>> Feel free to use this list! This is truly just a compiled list of tips I
>> found online to share with our board, local stakeholders, and community
>> members as needed from this point forward.
>>
>> ———————————
>>
>> 1. Remember the human before the position
>>
>> Behind every opinion is a neighbor, a parent, a volunteer, or a small
>> business owner. We can disagree without dehumanizing one another.
>>
>> 2. Choose direct conversation over public confrontation
>>
>> If something feels hurtful, concerning, or unresolved, reach out
>> privately when possible. One-on-one conversations reduce misunderstandings
>> and lower the temperature.
>>
>> 3. Assume good intent until proven otherwise
>>
>> Most people are acting from care, fear, or a desire to protect what they
>> love, not from malice. Starting from curiosity instead of accusation keeps
>> doors open.
>>
>> 4. Keep public spaces safe and welcoming for everyone
>>
>> Downtowns, parks, and community spaces belong to the whole community.
>> Let’s engage in ways that don’t intimidate, threaten, or make others feel
>> unsafe.
>>
>> 5. Take a pause when emotions run high
>>
>> Strong feelings are understandable, but taking a moment before responding
>> can prevent words or actions we can’t take back.
>>
>> 6. Lead with listening, not winning
>>
>> The goal of conversation isn’t to change minds, it’s to understand
>> perspectives. Feeling heard often matters more than agreement.
>>
>> 7. Remember our shared stake
>>
>> No matter our politics, we all want safe streets, thriving local
>> businesses, healthy families, and a community we’re proud to call home.
>>
>> 8. Model the behavior we want to see
>>
>> Calm voices, respectful language, and kindness are contagious. Each of us
>> helps set the tone for the community.
>>
>> 9. Protect relationships, even when ideas differ
>>
>> Friendships, neighborly trust, and community goodwill are harder to
>> rebuild than disagreements are to resolve.
>>
>> 10. Reach out when you’re struggling
>>
>> Times like these are heavy. Lean on trusted friends, neighbors, or local
>> support instead of carrying it alone.
>> ——————————————-
>>
>> Hope you all are doing well! Looking forward to seeing you all at Oregon
>> Heritage Conference if not before.
>>
>> Megan Dompe
>> Director of Coburg Main Street
>> PO Box 2875
>> Coburg, Oregon 97408
>> (541)913-6570
>>
>> "Start where you are,
>> Use what you have,
>> Do what you can."
>> - Arthur Ashe
>> [image: Outlook-oqfl5f5k.png]
>>
>
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