The world of local governance and policy can often seem like a dry, unengaging topic, but one innovative artist is determined to change that. Meet Jenniah Brown, a Croydon-based rapper and poet who is using her creative talents to bring council policy to life for young people. With a unique approach, she's turning complex documents into captivating performances, making the often-intimidating world of local government more accessible and engaging.
Brown's journey into the world of local governance began at a young age. At 22, she joined Croydon Council's highways team, where she encountered the intricacies of pothole repairs and dropped kerbs. But it was the governance aspect that truly sparked her interest. She recognized the power of local institutions and the impact they can have on communities. As she delves deeper into the world of policy, she's discovered a common challenge: the jargon-laden nature of council documents.
"When you think of policy, you don't think of color, rhythm, and storytelling," Brown reflects. "You just think of words and jargon." This realization inspired her to create something different. With her project, Connecting Dots, Brown aims to bridge the gap between policy and performance, making it more accessible and engaging for young people.
The project, funded by Arts Council England, will cover a range of topics, including devolution, health policies, the creative industries, and levelling up. Through her performances and discussions, Brown will explore these areas, encouraging residents to engage with the documents in a new and exciting way.
One of the key challenges Brown identifies is getting people interested in council policy. She argues that councils often talk about co-production but fail to create an engaging environment for residents. By bringing local artists and residents together, she hopes to foster a sense of community and encourage active participation.
The first session of Connecting Dots took place in Park Lane, Croydon, featuring performances from renowned artists like Big Scoop, Shaniqua Benjamin, and Selorm. The panel discussions, including representatives from King's College and the Department for Work and Pensions, further emphasized the project's potential to bring diverse perspectives together.
Brown's approach is not just about making policy more accessible; it's also about empowering young people to engage with their local government. By turning policy documents into performances, she aims to spark curiosity and encourage active participation in the democratic process.
As the project gains traction, Brown hopes that councils will embrace this innovative approach as a viable alternative to traditional consultations. She believes that policy needs a story, and her creative interpretation is just the beginning. With her passion and unique perspective, Jenniah Brown is undoubtedly making a significant impact on how we perceive and engage with local governance.
