Historically, “the commons” referred to shared land—especially in places like Ireland—where neighbors grazed their sheep together. But it was more than a pasture. It was the place people caught up on the news of the day, shared stories, exchanged goods, and connected. It was the original social network, built around shared space. Over time, these commons evolved into what we now call public parks. But their role hasn’t changed: they exist to bring people together.
Today, our parks are the modern-day commons. Open and accessible, they’re among the few remaining places where no purchase is required and anyone can show up. You can walk, picnic, chat, or sit quietly under a tree. Be in nature. It’s simple, human, and free. These spaces support the social glue that helps communities thrive.
But that glue is weakening.
We’re in the midst of a social isolation crisis (among the many others). As digital connection increases, in-person interaction is shrinking. It’s affecting our mental health, civic trust, and even life expectancy. The solution isn’t more screen time—it’s more shared time. And our parks are still here, waiting for us to return.
That’s why we’re launching Wednesday Walks.
Every Wednesday at 6 PM, we invite everyone to walk to their nearest park. No sign-ups, no programming. Just go. Bring a neighbor, or a friend—or go solo. If you live beside a park, just walk around it for half an hour. See what happens. Maybe even bring a picnic. It’s not an event—it’s a gentle weekly habit to help us re-inhabit public space and reawaken the joy of being together.
Public space matters. When we walk the same paths, sit on the same benches, or share the same shade, we begin to rebuild the kind of trust and connection that makes a town feel like a community. Parks offer a chance to cross paths, not just cross streets. That matters—especially in emergencies, where knowing your neighbors can be more valuable than any equipment.
These thoughts come from recent experience. Last week, I was invited to a casual picnic in a local park—10 or 15 people showed up. It was low-key and meaningful. On Friday morning, in another park, I saw about 30 people practicing Tai Chi together—graceful, quiet, and connected. And just this morning, while my mentee and I were juggling in the park, we came across a small dance troupe rehearsing nearby. Their music was soft, their movement joyful. All different gatherings, but each one shared the same spirit: people using public space to be present—with themselves and with one another.
That’s what parks are for. That’s what the commons have always been for.
So let’s gently return to that tradition—by walking back to each other.
August and September only. Every Wednesday. 6 PM. Your local park.
No agenda. Just show up. On foot.
John Crowley in collaboration with Aqus Community Foundation, Cool Petaluma, Blue Zones Project Petaluma, Rebuilding Petaluma Together, Petaluma Blacks for Community Development, ReLeaf Petaluma, Urban Chat, Safe Streets Petaluma, Petaluma Garden Club, Friends of the Petaluma River, neighbors and residents who believe in the commons.
AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER ONLY
