Year of the Neighbor

Read the official Proclamation from Mayor Jake Wilson below: 

Proclamation: 2026 Year of the Neighbor

WHEREAS: The City of Somerville has always understood that our strength comes from our people, and especially from the relationships between neighbors and the connections between community members —  the daily acts of connection, care, and solidarity that make this city resilient; and

WHEREAS: Community is Somerville's superpower, and the bonds we build across our neighborhoods, cultures, and generations are what allow us to face challenges together and move forward as one city; and

WHEREAS: At a moment of national discord and division, cities like ours must model a different way, one rooted in belonging, mutual support, and the belief that we all rise together or not at all; and

WHEREAS: Building connections between the community and the local government that serves them builds a foundation for mutual progress and creates spaces for community connection, inspiration, and advancement; and 

WHEREAS: The City of Somerville has long invested in the programs, spaces, and resources that bring neighbors together — and this year, those efforts will be united under a shared commitment to deepening the connections that define us; and

WHEREAS: Even small acts of neighborliness, kindness, and mutual aid can have profound impacts on an individual’s ability to manage both small daily tasks or face large life challenges, and these beneficial connections deserve to be cultivated and celebrated; and 

WHEREAS: Throughout 2026, Somerville will bring neighbors together through ward clean-ups, community events, and a citywide effort to strengthen the ties between long-time residents and those new to our city; and

WHEREAS: Existing City programs will be aligned around a common purpose — ensuring that every resident in every ward has opportunities to meet their neighbors, contribute to their community, and experience the belonging Somerville stands for.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jake Wilson, Mayor of the City of Somerville, do hereby proclaim 2026 the Year of the Neighbor, calling upon all residents, community organizations, and City departments to deepen the connections across our neighborhoods and to choose, as Somerville always has, community over isolation, generosity over indifference, and love of neighbor over fear of the unfamiliar.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Mayor Jake Wilson (@mayorjakewilson)

Each month we’re highlighting a timely way to be a good neighbor. Below, find a list of how we highlight the Year of the Neighbor in Somerville.