Cultural Awareness
What can we learn from other cultures, ethnicities and points
of view?How do we embrace the diversity in the world?
The answers to these questions lie within the cultural diversity of our own community and is demonstrated through the Cultural Awareness Committee.
Who is the Cultural Awareness Committee?
The Cultural Awareness Committee of the Midland Area Community Foundation is dedicated to promoting a better understanding, appreciation of and respect for all ethnic groups. We foster and support cultural activities within our community which demonstrate the values of a multi-faceted society.
The Committee recently conducted its first Forum with Midland area cultural groups. Attendees included representatives from UNICEF, People-to-People, International Women's Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Dow Chemical, Delta College, Delta Sigma Theta, Midland Clergy, the Greek Community, First Baptist Church, and the Tri-City Chinese Association. They reviewed the results of a cultural awareness survey of more than 20 local groups. The purpose of the survey was to identify cultural issues and unmet needs. The outcome of the Forum was a lively discussion and a prioritized list of cultural awareness activity needs.
Business Plan
The Cultural Awareness Committee has formulated a "business plan" based on the surveys and the Forum with three main thrusts:
- Develop an effective network among the Midland area community groups involved with cultural awareness. This would feature communications, periodic forums and public relations.
- Move forward on top priority community projects. Enhancing cultural awareness among school children was identified by the Forum as the highest priority. Additionally, the Committee will continue to support the Diversity Walk and MCTV programs.
- Provide grants and other funding in support of selected community projects.
Midland has a unique opportunity with its strong local diversity. By improving our awareness of the different cultural groups here, we will be able to better understand our increasingly complex world.
Speakers Bureau
Also as a result of the forum, the CAC has developed a Speakers Bureau.
The Speakers Bureau is a list of qualified individuals available and willing to discuss a range of subjects on cultural diversity, i.e., their native countries, particular regions of the world, gender, and diversity matters in the greater Midland Area.
The CAC’s hope is that organizations and individuals will seize this educational tool and utilize the knowledge and experiences these speakers have to offer.
Below are two links to the Speakers Bureau list -- one is categorized in alphabetical order by the speakers' last names and the other is categorized in alphabetical order by the organizations the speakers are affiliated with. Speakers' subjects follow their names.
http://www.midlandfoundation.org/pdfs/speakers_bureau.pdf
Contact the Committee
The Cultural Awareness Committee is actively working to make this happen. If you wish to join this Committee or want to share ideas or comments, please call 989-839-9661.