A culture of gratitude and social resilience: what holds a city together

Brno wants to be a smart, cosmopolitan, open, and sustainable city. But no strategy, no technology, and no campaign will succeed unless the most fundamental element is rooted in society – a culture of gratitude, trust, support and recognition.

Invisible Illnesses of Society

At first glance, everything may appear to be working: the budget, infrastructure, education system, and public services. But beneath the surface, fatigue, distrust, and quiet frustration are spreading. People are losing their sense of belonging. Polarization is growing. Isolation, burnout, and the feeling of “no one sees what I contribute to society” are on the rise.

This is where the theme of wellbeing begins – not as a wellness trend, but as a measure of a healthy society. If people do not feel safe, valued, and respected, then even the best strategy cannot help.

Recognition as the Foundation of Community Immunity

Cities that have successfully transitioned to a multicultural reality have one thing in common: they created space for the recognition of all voices. Gratitude is not a weakness – it is a survival tool. It enables cooperation. It helps bridge differences. It opens the way for dialogue where no one feels unnecessary.

In Brno, there are many people who work daily to hold society together – teachers, caregivers, volunteers, intercultural workers, parents, interpreters, educators, and neighbors. Often invisible. Yet irreplaceable.

At the Multicultural Center, we believe that recognizing these quiet heroes is the key to the city’s long-term resilience.

A Campaign That Should Begin – And How

Recognition of the often-unseen contributions of residents can be a powerful starting point for public dialogue about what truly holds us together. Experiences from other European cities – such as Vienna’s “Wien liebt Vielfalt” campaign or Rotterdam’s “City Makers” initiative – show that targeted public communication focused on acknowledging everyday efforts and embracing diversity can significantly strengthen social trust and reduce polarization.

While no such communication campaign is currently in the works, now is exactly the right time to design one. It’s not enough to reach those already engaged in city affairs – we need to involve those who feel overlooked or have lost trust.

Such a campaign should be visible and present in public spaces. It should show that the city sees and values the daily efforts of its residents – whether they are long-time locals or newcomers. Only then can we meaningfully speak about the contribution of migration and the shared future of the city.

And we’re not just talking about expats. We’re also referring to migrants who are still often met with automatic rejection by the majority population – even though many come for reasons like climate change, family reunification, or safety. A minor difference – in language, clothing, or skin color – can often provoke hostility. Even when people have never had any personal contact with migrants.

At the same time, the city anticipates the arrival of more foreign workers. But unless past wounds are healed and open dialogue with local residents takes place first, new integration efforts will run into a wall of mistrust and misunderstanding.

Without a Healthy Society, There Are No Investments

Wellbeing is not just a psychological luxury. It influences the economy as well – communities that feel safe and supported attract investors, talents, and creators. Cities that invest in relationships are more stable and better equipped to manage crises.

Where to Find Balance?

Brno is currently investing in infrastructure – technologies, a stadium, and other visible projects. Each of them has its role.But a truly crucial step for the city’s development is still pending: a new main train station.This is not just a transport hub – it is a gateway to the city that determines how easily people can live, work, and connect here.Let’s remember the logic of the game Civilization: no city can thrive without functioning transportation.

Major construction without solving mobility issues may end up paralyzing the city rather than strengthening it. Not even the most beautiful riverfront, galleries, or green oases will be enough on their own.

Real development isn’t just about what’s visible – it’s about what makes daily movement, connection, and accessibility possible.

An Open Question

What are we doing for those who live here today – across generations, languages, and life stories?How are we contributing to a life of dignity, safety, and mutual respect?

Brno has a chance to become a city where gratitude, support, and respect are not exceptions but the foundation.A city that thinks of the future without forgetting about connection.

Let’s work on it together.