This is part II of our “Voices Across Counties: Amplifying Rural Arkansas” series. Find part I here.
We’ve all heard the phrase, “All politics is local.”
This idea highlights how home and family concerns are at the heart of most voters’ decisions, emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing, and points to the isolation felt in small towns when national politics dominate conversations.
The “reach out and touch” nature of local politics drives change but sometimes, we lose that unique attribute by drawing connections between national leaders and the local choices that affect our everyday lives. In both Ouachita and Phillips counties, examples of community involvement abound alongside numerous challenges and barriers to political participation. As you read about the state of affairs in these two distinguished places, consider the role of local politics in shaping the future of rural Arkansas and the barriers, both legal and practical, that prevent many Arkansans from fully participating.
Community Action and Engagement
Through my professional work and interviews, I’ve met and listened to people deeply engaged in their communities. From the lush forests of South Arkansas to the rich Delta soil, Arkansans live in the present while confronting the ghosts of the past. Issues such as clean water, housing, and political access are the building blocks of a connected society. Unfortunately, these issues are still at the top of many Arkansans’ minds. Towns like Camden and Helena-West Helena face challenges shaped by race, class, and political access.
Neighbors in Helena-West Helena
For years, residents of Helena-West Helena have dealt with unsafe water and the issues that come from unsafe water. Most recently, in the cold of winter, earlier this year, they were advised not to use the water running through their pipes due to a systematic water infrastructure failure. The water was no longer potable, requiring boiling before any use and making it unsuitable for cooking.
This wasn’t the first instance of such a crisis but merely the latest. Helena-West Helena residents, like anyone else, were distraught and disappointed. Since then, residents have continued to experience spotty water pressure and discoloration. In conversations with some residents, they mentioned this water crisis as one of the most memorable issues in recent years. One resident remarked, “We can’t trust the water, and we can’t trust the city to fix it.” Other participants nodded in agreement.
“I don’t deal with politics; they’re all liars. I don’t vote because nothing’s going to change.”
These failures significantly damaged the community’s trust. Another resident described the situation: “Years of neglect have piled up, and the lack of confidence in the city to fix it has really seeped into the public perception of what their actions can do.”
Despite the challenges, the community has shown resilience. Residents banded together to distribute bottled water, and local organizations stepped up to provide support, showcasing the strength and solidarity within the community. Some interviewees named other residents who stepped in and “had a big tank. He would fill it up from his house and he’d go around and, if you had buckets or pans, he’d fill it up for you. Plus, give you a case of water!” Even when they felt cast aside by elected officials, community leaders stepped up and helped when they could.
Neighbors in Camden
When I spoke with residents of Ouachita County, housing and education were top concerns. These issues are quintessentially local politics.
A local pastor and self-described community advocate discussed the relationship between residents and the combined school district. He detailed the perceived results of the 1990 school district merger. From his and other’s accounts, there was an underlying racial current was not resolved by integrating the districts.
On one level, each district was competitive academically and athletically, after the merger, he says, “For example, when these two good schools, same classification, combined, people that saw that combination said, ‘Wow, this is going to be hard on the other schools in the district.’ It has taken over 20 years for state championships to show up, and it’s only been one, in football.”
This quote highlights the uphill battle of students and administrators to commit to and excel in the new normal. He says, “Our schools are the heart of the community. When they struggle, we all struggle. It’s up to us to ensure our children have the best possible education despite the challenges.”
“I listen, and I vote because that is my voice for who’d be the leader in the community.”
Similarly, a community activist highlighted the housing issues, motivating residents in Camden and surrounding areas to get involved.” Affordable housing is scarce, and many homes are in disrepair. We need policies that support low-income families and improve living conditions,” she emphasized.
Another resident discussed a year-long effort to restore air conditioning to a 74 year old woman. These individual issues pile up on community members and make it difficult to see the bright side. However, there are individuals ready to take up the challenge!
Challenges and Encouragement
Despite the passion for change, numerous barriers hinder political participation in these communities. A lack of information and resources, coupled with disillusionment and apathy, are significant obstacles.
One resident explained their hesitation: “I don’t deal with politics; they’re all liars. I don’t vote because nothing’s going to change.” Another added, “Nothing ever changes. Same revolving cycle. No matter who’s in office, no matter who’s on the council. Same revolving stool.”
These sentiments are common among residents who feel their voices are not heard, and their votes don’t make a difference. The cyclical nature of local politics, where the same issues persist regardless of leadership changes, fosters a sense of hopelessness.
However, some residents continue to participate, driven by the belief that local politics can bring about change. One resident expressed their cautious engagement: “Yeah, I do participate. I listen, and I vote because that is my voice for who’d be the leader in the community. Now, what do they do? What I want them to do, how I want them to do it, I know that’s not going to happen. But there’s certain people that you sure enough don’t want in the office.”
Civic participation is crucial for community development, especially in rural areas like Ouachita and Phillips counties. Local politics shapes the future of these communities, addressing critical issues like infrastructure, education, and housing.
While significant barriers to participation exist, stories of resilience and dedication demonstrate the power of grassroots efforts. It’s essential for residents to engage in local politics, voice their concerns, and work together to create positive change. By doing so, they can ensure a brighter future for their communities.
