Ames has always had a relatively diverse population, for its size and geographic location. However, in recent years, community members have experienced perceived changes in the nature of our community diversity. Stories, based on anecdotal descriptions of these perceived changes, have developed and spread. There has been increased potential for misunderstanding, distrust and dislike to develop over differences in attitudes, behaviors and abilities.

The Community Conversations on Diversity Committee is offering an opportunity to move beyond the stories. CCDC is organizing conversation groups to bring diverse individuals together to talk with other residents they would not likely meet otherwise, and to discuss their sense of belonging in Ames. The conversation groups will meet during October and early November. Each conversation group will be led by a trained facilitator. The facilitator will help to maintain some structure, but will attempt to allow for maximum exchange of ideas. The conversations may not always be easy. However, the hope is that participants will experience how other residents, perhaps with backgrounds very different from theirs, feel about their lives in Ames.

The students, staff and faculty of Iowa State comprise a significant proportion of the Ames community. Members of the Iowa State community have much to share, regarding their experiences as new residents of Ames, and perspectives from a range of different cultural, ethnic and national backgrounds. Participation by members of the Iowa State community is strongly encouraged, and will greatly enhance the breadth of the conversations.

Participants may register as individuals or as a group of individuals. CCDC needs to receive the participant name, mailing address, phone number and e-mail address of each participant. We are requesting registration by Oct. 1. The registration information may be sent to [email protected] or mailed to CCDC, Story County Extension, P.O. Box 118, Nevada, IA 50201. Questions may be sent to this e-mail address or by phone, to 515-383-6551. 

Please consider “joining the conversation” and helping to build a stronger Ames. 

Debbie Lee

Resident

Ames