Oakwood Inclusion Coalition hosts inaugural Longest Table event

The following article appeared in the Oakwood Register on June 10, 2026.

The Oakwood Inclusion Coalition hosted its first-ever Longest Table community potluck dinner on Thursday, June 4. The OIC had over 240 individuals and families register for the gathering, which was held on a closed block of East Schantz Avenue between Oakwood High School and Mack Hummon Stadium.

"The OIC's goal was simply to bring our neighbors together for a shared meal fostering connection, conversation, and community," said the OIC's Kate Furmanski. "We hoped that, by inviting people to slow down and show up for each other, The Longest Table would build bridges more powerful than the generation gaps, cultural differences, and political boundaries that might keep us apart. On hand for the event were several City Council members, City Manager Katie Smiddy, as well as civic leaders and families from across Oakwood.

"The Oakwood Inclusion Coalition was thrilled with the turnout and with the warm and cheerful atmosphere, and we are deeply grateful for the dozens of volunteers, from middle schoolers through retirees, who made the evening possible."

Organizers hope to make the community gathering - which mirrors similar events across the country - an annual get-together in Oakwood. "This was the first time The Longest Table has been held in Oakwood and we would love to make it an annual event. To achieve that, we need volunteer commitment from all segments of the community," Furmanski added. "If yoy can help plan next year's event or donate to help pay for furniture rental, please connect with us at www.oakwoodic.org."