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Create a Community

I first met John-Michael in a Manhattan high school. I was there to take over his role after his promotion and was so nervous, a newcomer in this tight-knit community. As we walked through the school, I watched as students, teachers, and staff greeted him warmly in the hallways, discussing big dreams and tiny, personal challenges. In his office there were several students waiting with notebooks out, ready to plan the next event. I thought to myself: How did I get here? How could I fill these shoes?

A few weeks later, struggling to find my footing, I asked John-Michael how to become a part of that community. He told me to be unapologetically and authentically myself in every single thing I did. To trust myself. I took his advice—and boy was he right!

Moving to Madison seven years later as John-Michael’s wife felt a little like our first interaction. I met his 4th grade teacher in the grocery store, his dad’s hair cutter at Lenny and Joe’s, and a group of VIBE kids at the movie theater. Each interaction was meaningful, authentic, and enthusiastic. Again I found myself asking: How did I get here? How could I keep up in this town? John-Michael gave me the same advice, and guess what? Right again.

I’m not sharing this story because John-Michael is always right (he’s not), but because it represents who he is and why I love him. He believes everyone has the right to be celebrated for who they are: their truest and most authentic self. And he knows how to do it: Build meaningful relationships, make sure everyone is safe and supported, and create a community where all people belong.

I can’t wait to vote for John-Michael Parker on Nov. 3. I hope your readers will, too.

Joyce Gendler

Madison