Festivals are a terrific way to build an inclusive diverse community..

LangleyTimes

We can all talk about building an inclusive, diverse community, but are people’s actions representing their words?Well, I am happy to say a few responses and shows of interest have appeared in my e-mail box and they sound terrific. Again, the Diversity Challenge question is: “What have you done or what you could do to include someone into your culture or community organization?”In the coming months through this column, you will be hearing from many voices, hopefully capturing a glimpse of what is occurring in our communities on diversity issues. There are many cultures that exist in Canada and we would like to hear from as many as possible in this writing challenge.Doing a little soul searching myself on the question, festivals are a terrific way of sharing cultures with Canadians. There are currently two upcoming festivals in the valley that represent a multicultural theme.
In Langley on June 28, “Culture Fest” is taking place. Some of the cultural groups that will be participating will be: Punjabi, Afro Caribbean, Latin American and First Nation. Some of the events on this day include musical entertainment, drumming, carving and much more. Ana David of Langley, who is co-ordinating this event said, “The festival venue creates a place and an audience for those who normally go unnoticed.
Jim Diers, who is the guest speaker on community building, is all about turning perceived liabilities into assets.“You can nominate mobility restricted members to your organization’s board and use their talents at a different level than a regular 9-5 job setting. Seniors, youth, diversity, disabilities, parenting are all important factors to a cohesive supportive neighborhood network we can all call home... maybe one day.”Culture Fest is a weeklong celebration of culture and diversity from June 23 to June 28. Details of the various events can be found on the web: http://www.bcharmony.org/Harold Rosen from the Baha’i Spiritual Assembly of Abbotsford and a co-ordinator with the Abbotsford Multicultural Festival, which is taking place at the AgRec buildings on Oct.r 4, shared these comments about that upcoming event.“The festival next fall will be an opportunity for new levels of bonding among people of various ethnic backgrounds, and will encourage new patterns of socializing in our city. It will build bridges of fellowship among the diverse faith communities, schools, businesses and performing arts groups of Abbotsford.“As an extended family event, it will generate greater trust, understanding and appreciation among our neighbours in the Fraser Valley. All of these likely outcomes of the Multicultural Festival are beautifully harmonious with Baha’i goals and purposes,” said Rosen.The model behind the diversity question is how can we better share culture. Festivals are a terrific way to connect citizens with different global villages.If you think you have an answer to the Diversity Challenge question, send me an e-mail of 300 words or less.
This challenge is open to all ages with two categories, one for school-aged children and the other for adults. Send your response by Sept. 19.Stay tuned. In my next column, we will find out how some public servants, otherwise known as politicians, answered the question.
Ken Herar is a columnist with the Abbotsford News.
KenHerar@gmail.com