Humans rely on each other for our survival and well-being. But the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered the ways we can connect and relate to one another.

Social cohesion describes the sense of connection and solidarity within and across communities and has been referred to as the “glue that holds a society together.” Even after some re-opening of Canadian society, physical distancing guidelines remain in place and in-person interactions remain mostly limited to our “bubbles,” consisting usually of our family members and already established close friendships. Over the past months, though some Canadians have indicated a greater sense of connection with their families, they report feeling less connected to their friends and the broader community. When we can’t associate with varied groups of people, we miss out on opportunities to move beyond narratives of “us” and “them” and towards kindness, trust and empathy for those whose experiences are different from our own.

Despite our physical separation, a caremongering movement quickly emerged in response to the pandemic. Diverse communities have started mutual aid networks and neighbourhood pods to address inequities made worse by the pandemic, and community foundations are funding innovative grassroots projects to combat isolation. People are showing support in unprecedented numbers to speak out about racism and many are finding ways to connect with each other and even strengthen social resilience in their communities.

But as the months pass and we move deeper into the pandemic, can we keep this momentum up? As the demands to limit our social interactions persist and the stress of uncertainty and isolation continue, how will our mental health and wellbeing, as well as our ability to cooperate as a society, be impacted?

This instalment of Distant, Not Disengaged is all about connection. Join us to share how your social experience has changed under the pandemic and what you are both hopeful for and worried about. You’re invited to bring a photo (printed or on your phone) of a favourite recent social interaction, pre-physical distancing and COVID-19, to share in small discussion groups with fellow participants.

We will also hear from some special guests who will share their thoughts on our social fabric and how it has been and may continue to be affected by COVID-19.

CO-FACILITATOR

• Jane Cox – Principal, Cause+Affect

SPEAKERS

• Lidia Kemeny – Director, Partnerships, Vancouver Foundation
• Sean Lauer – Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, UBC
• Others to be confirmed