Common Ground Initiative
Melanie Plenda
Am I a patriot? Yes, and you are too.

As football season rolls in, I’m reminded of how strongly people felt, on both sides, when some NFL players took a knee during the national anthem. I remember the feelings and opinions being so intense that it ruined friendships, dominated social media and gave the impression that these highly paid athletes, mostly Black men, were unpatriotic.

I have a different view of that.

Am I a patriot? Yes, and you are too.

affordable housing

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Q&A With Schonna Green, Manchester’s director of homeless initiatives

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Q&A With Schonna Green, Manchester’s director of homeless initiatives

Schonna Green has just celebrated one year as Manchester’s first director of homeless initiatives. During that short time, she facilitated a plan for more affordable housing and created a coalition of business owners, faith leaders, politicians and other community stakeholders. Through it all, Green has made her mark as a Black woman making real changes in New Hampshire. Here,Granite State News Collaborative columnist Anthony Payton interviews Green about what makes a successful troubleshooter. (Answers have been lightly edited for length and clarity).