Is Represent! 98118 only about A Day in the Life of 98118 on October 5, 2011?
No. The project is on-going. October 5th is merely the launch date. On that day, you will begin to see posters, stickers, and activities associated with Represent! 98118. But helping us to record the day is only one way to participate in the project. As the months go by, we will also be doing audio diaries, interviews with elders, a short documentary, a photo journalism project, and a host of other activities. So, no worries if you can’t be a part of A Day in the Life. There will be plenty of other ways to be involved.
Why did you choose Wednesday, October 5th as the day?
Fall seemed like a good season for the project. Schools are in session; fall sports are in full swing; farmers markets and pea patch gardens are still in season; holy days and holidays are near and dear; dark days and winter chills are not yet here.
October 5th seemed like an ordinary day of working, playing, studying, praying, and going about the everyday joys and sorrows of being alive.
Are children welcomed to participate?
Children and youth are encouraged to participate but must have permission from parents and teachers. There are many examples of how schools can be represented, and area schools will be invited to participate at any level desired.
Will this information be translated into some of the many languages spoken in the 98118 zip code?
Yes. Materials will be translators and interpreters will be available in as many languages as we can cover, with emphasis on popular 98118 languages, such as Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Khmer, Somali, Spanish, Tigrinya, Vietnamese.
What special events will be taking place on that day?
Events are being planned at different venues throughout the 98118, but a complete list will not be available until September. If you have an event planned for October 5th that is open to the public, please let us know. If you’re thinking of planning an event and would like to link it to “A Day in the Life of 98118” please contact us.
Can I create a project or event that will be part of A Day in the Life of 98118?
Yes. For example, Feetfirst, a Seattle organization that encourages people to walk the city, is thinking of hosting walking tours in the 98118 on October 5th. One block of neighbors is planning a potluck for that evening. A group of musicians is planning an outdoor performance, rain or shine.
How do I get my business or organization involved?
Your organization might like to host an event, conduct a survey, arrange for a tour, provide volunteers – there are numerous ways to get involved.
Can my organization include an already existing project as part of A Day in the Life of 98118?
Of course. If linking your project to our project would be of benefit to you, we are open to any and all suggestions.
Can an individual artist design a project for A Day in the Life of 98118?
Definitely. Just kindly coordinate with us.
What if I have a wild idea that I think might fit with this project?
We’ll probably ask you to come to a meeting and present it. Wild ideas are sometimes the best ideas.
If I want to volunteer my time, who do I contact?
Send an email to Nancy Rawles nrawles@earthlink.net or sign up on this site and someone will contact you within a few days.
Do you need more money to make this happen?
Donations of time, money, materials, and services are always needed… for everything from printing posters and providing equipment to mentoring youth and feeding volunteers. Businesses and organizations can sponsor artists, provide space for exhibits and performances, offer membership or service discounts on October 5th, donate money for mailings… you name it, we need it.
Is this project all about celebrating diversity?
This project is definitely about celebrating diversity, but that’s not all to it. We chose the word “Represent!” rather than “Celebrate!” because the emphasis is on showing and noticing who’s here. We also want to learn about each other, and our stories are sometimes painful. We don’t all get along or like to interact with people outside of our circles. But this is a day for all sides to be shown. Venues will be accessible, and respect for differences will be key. Come as you are, in the spirit of the day.
