Unite or Die

Unite or Die

It’s never easy for strong willed individuals to set aside their own self interest for an unforeseen greater gain in the collective good. This is why over 250 years ago Ben Franklin first created the above artwork demonstrating the importance of joining efforts; a concept which still rings true in our own community, as the contemporary rendition was created by talented CIA graduate Graham Krausser, clearly shows. 

Initially, Flora Stone Mather (the main force behind the creation of University Circle) made sure the University Circle institutions combined their efforts, and what she understood has recently been proven by reams of economic evidence.  Quite simply, institutions are strongest when they work together and weakest when they are segmented.  As we struggle to find new ways of reinventing Cleveland, we under publicize the world class resources already established here.  If the University Circle institutions combine their marketing and other efforts, they can serve not only as the intellectual center of this great city, but also as selling point to others.  Imagine weekend tour packages which included events at The Orchestra, The Art Museum, The Gardens and other venues.  By working together, the University Circle institutions can serve to showcase our city, allowing individuals from outside the region to begin to appreciate Cleveland and understand what Clevelanders have always known and enjoyed about our great city.  

Regionalization of this microcosm is necessary for the regionalization of NE Ohio.  These leaders can easily and convincingly demonstrate the benefits regionalization can achieve, which would demonstrate to the citizens of the county the benefits of working together.  How can this community articulate the importance of regionalization and cohesiveness to the citizens of Cuyahoga County, when its own, greatest intellectual leaders refuse to do so?  We can all hope these benevolent leaders will lead by example.