Around Philly, people digging in to On the Table events

All over the Philadelphia region Tuesday, people were getting together to talk over a meal. 

The gatherings organized by “On the Table Philly” bring together people of different backgrounds who may not know one another. The open dialogue is meant to foster new relationships and inspire solutions.

Attorney Wadud Ahmad hosted a young African-American group in his Center City offices Tuesday to talk about civic engagement and public service.

“History is cyclical, and we have an administration that challenges young folks,” he said. “If you disagree with what’s happening in the world today, in this country today, what are you going to do about it?”

Jenne Ayers, who ran unsuccessfully for City Council, said her defeat will not deter her from getting involved.

“I think it’s a great experience,” she said. “I think when more people run — whether young or old — they bring more ideas to the table, and the more ideas brought to the table, the better we are as a city.”

She went on to say the mission of the event is to build the city and the region

“Conversations that matter to bring groups of people together to think of ideas and solutions that benefit the city,” Ayers said