So where is all this diversity? Is everyone hiding in silos? And if so, what does that mean to our community?

Ernest Hooper (St. Pete Times Columnist) and Sigrid Tidmore (Patel Foundation for Global Understanding) wondered what this isolation means to newcomers…and particularly, what it means to the children of immigrants and minorities who are trying to enter our workforce?   So in mid February they got together with a CreativeTampaBay task force and created a anecdotal research project designed to ask diverse young professionals about the challenges they face. The first Tampa-based breakfast was called “Integrating Our Assets”  and it was like taking the cork off a champagne bottle. The stories and ideas bubbled up.  Read Ernest’s poignant summary by clicking here.

The second meeting included many of the same faces, and many new ones. Asian, Latin, African-American, Caribbean, Canadian, European, Middle Eastern, gay, handicapped…even some local, Anglo guys. And here’s what we discovered: The hunger for understanding wasn’t about race, culture or creed – but rather about global perspective. It was about acceptance and tolerance, and how important it is to live in a community where we honor our differences. It was also about taking responsibility – not just complaining — and really playing an active role in the community.

This self-appointed band of solution-makers marched out several initiatives which are now underway.  If you would like to have your name added to the mailing list to be notified about any of these upcoming events designed to mobilize and engage young professionals with global community views, please sent your information to: STidmore@global-understanding.org