Classes begin on our campus today, delayed a week due to Hurricane Harvey. As we strive to provide a sense of stability and assistance for students, I asked my classes to complete an in-class writing. The prompt asked, "What does Houston mean to you?"
Here are some of the responses from British Literature students:
"Houston means that there is a way for people of all backgrounds to do more than coexist."
"Houston means initiative and selflessness to me due to the recent events. Many people were willing to help each other during the hurricane even when they needed help themselves."
"Houston means home."
"Houston means being with family."
"Houston is the city that gets together through any situation."
"Houston means a home of opportunities which let us be someone in life."
"In my opinion, Houston means a city filled with hopes and dreams."
"Houston means equality, sticking through the tough times, a home to always come back to, family history, pride, togetherness, opportunity, hope, strength, tranquility, and diversity."
"Houston is flooded streets and potholes in the pavement...Houston is the home of N.A.S.A and Beyoncé...a city that can transform from hood to posh suburbia in 20 minutes along I-45."
I like these comments. I see parallels to the original/liberal promise of community colleges (Dewey) and why community colleges must attend to community experiences and discourses.
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