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Diversity Awareness Month

We have all heard that America is a melting pot. People from cultures all over the world blend together as one, and the Fox Cities is no different. In fact, 17% of our total population are minorities. From 2006-2014, minority populations in our area grew by 2.4% on average (A Community Assessment for the Fox Cities of Wisconsin, 2016).

There is something to be said about a community that values diversity. Communities are at their strongest when everyone feels valued, has support to reach their potential and can fully participate in society. That is why it is important to embrace a culture of an inclusive society. Successful immigrant integration builds communities that are:

  • Cohesive: A vibrant society shared and valued by established and newcomer residents of different experiences, histories, ethnicities and backgrounds.
  • Revitalized: A revitalization of declining communities through the contributions of immigrant families working in tandem with their U.S.-born neighbors.
  • Inclusive: Communities welcome and embrace all dimensions of diversity and celebrate the rich cultural fabric of our society.
  • Globally connected: Increased productivity and a robust global economy through an expanded base of multi-lingual and multicultural workers, consumers, taxpayers and entrepreneurs.
  • Vibrant democracies: A social and cultural environment in which all groups are accepted as equal members of society with the opportunity—and responsibility—to engage and contribute to the common good.
  • Secure: A more secure nation where all members of society—regardless of race, national origin or socio-economic status—live in dignity and equality.

From simply welcoming a new neighbor or colleague with kind words and a helping hand, to volunteering for an organization that supports inclusion through integration services that prepare communities to warmly welcome newcomers, any person can help their community achieve a culture that feels welcoming and inclusive. Effective integration services might include:

  • Language and Education
  • Health and Well-Being
  • Citizenship and Civic Engagement
  • Economic Integration and Employment
  • Community Development

Moving to a new place can be intimidating to anyone. Moving to a new place with cultural obstacles such as different societal norms and a language barrier can be downright terrifying. When communities recognize these barriers and are proactive in taking steps to prevent them, it becomes a place that feels welcoming, a place where people feel they are supported, and a place to learn, grow and thrive. When you give people access to the resources they need to reach their full potential, you are supporting an environment for people to become self-reliant, connected and contributing members of their new communities.


References
A Community Assessment for the Fox Cities of Wisconsin. (2016, April 28). Retrieved from LIFE Study: http://www.foxcitieslifestudy.org/