One of the things I was most proud of when I was a resident of the big city of Philadelphia was that I lived there for 20 years without owning a car. Who needed a car, when I had my feet, my bike, the bus, the subway, the trolleys and a car share service? I felt proud that I was making an impact on the environment. I felt proud that through my personal actions, I was making a contribution, however small, to the greater good. When you live in a city, there are constant reminders that you’re part of something bigger than yourself: You’re a part of a vibrant and diverse community that can be as small as your block or as big as the city itself. When you realize that–and it’s hard not to–you can’t help but want to work to make your community a better place.

As many other city dwellers have noted, cities can provide as much of a “village” feel as many small towns, with their walkable shops and restaurants, farmers markets, cafes … plus, they have the diversity that most villages lack. Sure, cities have their problems, but to imply that the values of cities are somehow “less than” those of small towns is divisive and simply untrue. Where would our country be without its cities?

Now I live in Oakland, another wonderful city that is generally overlooked due to its proximity to lovely San Francisco. I think living in Philadelphia all those years gave me a deeper appreciation for “underdog cities” like Oakland. Philadelphia also had its more glamorous neighbor city, New York. Living in Oakland, I enjoy the city life and the sunshine. I enjoy the year-round farmer’s markets all throughout Oakland. I enjoy walking to the video store, cafe and movie theater, as well as the 10-minute drive to the beach or a redwood grove in the city’s hills. Although I now need a car to easily access the wonders of the Bay Area beyond my walkable Oakland neighborhood, I still take pride in doing my small part to do my part for the greater good. And my heart is warmed by all of the wonderful people of Oakland who do their part as well, whether it’s through recycling, composting, volunteering, driving less or simply smiling and saying hello when they walk down the street. That’s my favorite big-city value.

Blair D
Oakland, CA

Where but in a big city can we learn to value diversity, non-judgment and acceptance through practice not preaching?

Where but in a big city can we make buying local vs. buying big box an attainable reality?

Who but a big city dweller can lessen their eco-footprint without sacrificing innovation and technology?

Big cities give us access to information, culture, art, and different points of view.

Big cities have great food.

Keep It Movin
Philadelphia, PA