The Dayton community was struck with tragedy on Aug. 4, which called for strength and guidance from one another in order to grow.
“It’s hard when ‘normal’ changes so suddenly, but if it weren’t for all of the love being offered and spread by faces new and old alike, I don’t think Fifth Street would have been able to flourish the way it has continued to do,” said Kelly Hanus, Oregon District employee.
There was no doubt that more than just locals would be shook up. Large amounts of kindness and support flooded in from all directions. Dayton came back in ways that weren’t quite expected.
“The Dayton Shine event and many others among children, including the students at K-12 decorating the street, has been beyond appreciated,” said Hanus.
The city showed immense amounts of courage.
“I’ve heard of a lot more of community events going on,” said Trey Jackson, student in the Psychology program at Wright State University.
Funds were raised at events like “Dayton Shine” and “Taste of the Oregon District” to bring everyone together in attempts to spread hope, and that they did. New faces from all over fled through the Oregon District to show their compassion towards local businesses.
This does not mean that people were fearless, it means that they had no choice but to be brave. With more security and precautions being taken, the environment is starting to regain slight ordinariness.
“I think I’d feel safer [going there now],” said Alexander George, Wright State student studying music education.
Those affected directly have a different outlook than students. A new outlook has risen among locals and deserves to be shared with the entire community. Curiosity is understood; it is expected when such an event takes place.
In order to move forward, prying and question-asking must lessen. Words carry a weight like no other and it goes unnoticed just how people are affected by that burden.
The city of Dayton could be considered anything but normal for the time being, but that does not taint its strength.
Through thick and thin, the Dayton community will continue to be strong and stand hand-in-hand.
Through Thick and Thin, the Dayton Community Comes Back Strong
Dayton, OH Skyline, 2018. Photograph: Soham Parikh/The Guardian
