L.A. Residents Explore “Civic Assemblies” to Shape Policy
Los Angeles residents are exploring an innovative approach to local governance: civic assemblies. These gatherings aim to involve everyday citizens in crafting policy solutions, potentially reshaping how communities address critical issues like homelessness and urban development.
What are Civic Assemblies?
Civic assemblies, also known as citizens’ assemblies, function as a hybrid of jury duty and city council meetings. A group of residents is randomly chosen, with demographics like age, race, and socioeconomic status considered to mirror the wider populace. This group then tackles a complex question and formulates policy recommendations for the government.
The process involves multiple meetings dedicated to learning, discussion, and ultimately, the creation of policy solutions. The government can then use these policies to draft legislation.
On a recent Saturday, approximately 30 residents convened in Culver City to engage in a mock civic assembly, hosted by Public Democracy L.A. and Braver Angels. These groups support community participation in local decision-making and seek to bridge political divides.
A Test Run in Culver City
The focus of the mock assembly was the critical issue of post-fire land management, including a balance between safety, housing, and resilience. Participants, often lacking prior experience, received guidance from experts representing government, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders. This helped to inform their perspectives.
“I’m tired of yelling at the TV and writing on Facebook. But to do this with other people is exhilarating,”
—Joan Jaeckel, Resident
The participants split into smaller groups to explore particular policy suggestions. Among the proposals were interest-free loans for rebuilding and the creation of greenbelt buffers. The final step involved each participant voting on the proposals, demonstrating their support, need for changes, or outright rejection.
These assemblies foster community and make citizens feel their input matters. According to the Brookings Institute, “deliberative mini-publics,” like civic assemblies, can increase public trust in government by giving people a voice in policy creation.
Outcomes and Future Prospects
Civic assemblies have led to significant legislative outcomes in other parts of the world. For instance, Ireland’s assemblies resulted in the legalization of same-sex marriage. In France, a citizens’ assembly on climate produced proposals that were then considered by the government.
The mock assembly provided a valuable learning experience for participants like Patrick Traynor. He gained insight into complex issues. Jamal Thomas expressed that these collaborative sessions gave him hope, believing that potential solutions were possible.
Culver City Councilmember Bubba Fish was struck by the collaborative nature of the event. He is now considering how to include assemblies in the city’s regular decision-making processes.
The Culver City subcommittee on governance will meet on July 8 to consider the potential of incorporating civic assemblies in the budget process. The public is invited to share their comments. Moreover, organizations like Public Democracy L.A. and Braver Angels are available to help other communities explore the possibility of civic assemblies.