Understanding the dynamics of racial equity and systemic racism in rural Iowa communities is a complex journey. This free series of four interactive, online conversations will give leaders in our small, rural towns knowledge and tools to apply in their work bringing the community together around what they have in common, not what divides them. Building strong communities requires all voices to be part of the conversation. This begins by understanding factors that shape our own lives and our neighbors' lives.
We will create a network of regional leaders committed to racial healing who will continue to be allies for each other as their rural communities build bridges and learn to communicate across culture. We will use tools developed for our Community Heart & Soul® initiative that facilitate meaningful community engagement work in small rural towns, involve all voices, and bring people together around the things that matter most.
In this first session, entitled Imagine, we will address the question, "What is diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) and what does it mean where I live?"
Application: Use a tool to look at your own community networks and assets. How do leaders seek out new voices and become an ally for inclusion?
All sessions are on Thursdays from noon to 1:30 pm. Dates and titles of the other sessions are as follows: November 19, Connect; January 21, Sharing Stories; and February 18, Sustaining Racial Healing Where You Live. Attendance at all four sessions is highly recommended.
