Changing the Narrative
We are continuing to change the narrative for healing of our differences
POINTS OF DIVERSITY"S COMMUNITY MEAL
for
REFUGEES and IMMIGRANTS
One Hundred fifteen guests representing 14 different nations met new friends, tried new foods, and discovered new possibilities thanks to United Way (uwrv.org) and Roanoke City Library, Melrose Branch. Newcomers love Roanoke, find it safe and most people are friendly. Social isolation and transportation are issues for some. Work to be done to make them feel they belong year-round.
Points of Diversity worked with the Roanoke Valley community to address issues of racism and bias in the present while seeking to understand the past.
We accomplished this through a series of community meals across the many neighborhoods of Roanoke. In addition to breaking bread together during these events, we used storytelling as a tool to better understand our neighbors and build lasting relationships.
Each meal was free and featured personal stories of racial inequity and healing. There was plenty of time for sharing at each meal through facilitated dialogue. There was a focus on both understanding the past and seeking solutions for the future.
Between 600-700 residents attended six meals and set priorities for continuing to change the narrative in regard to prejudice and racism! If you would like to receive more information, reach out to us at roanokevalleypointsofdiversity@gmail.com.
Previous Events
Meal #1: Re-Visiting Gainsboro
Our first event took place on February 24 at First Baptist Church in the Gainsboro neighborhood.
Learn more about it HERE.
Meal #2: Teens Telling Stories Countering Hate & Prejudice
Our second event took place on April 7th at Roanoke College. We focused on hearing from young people and learned a lot from some of the outstanding youth in our community.
MEAL #3: Sharing Spiritual Journeys
Our third event took place on May 19. We focused on different religious groups in the Roanoke Valley.
Members from different religious communities shared stories of their experiences here in Roanoke.
Meal #4: “Know Your Neighbor" in SE Roanoke City
Meal #5: The Legacy of Slavery at Hollins University
The University reported on their study of slaves on their campus and the connection to their descendants that have been maintained. Several of the surviving descendants of these slaves attended the dinner & discussion.
Meal #6: One Community/Una Comunidad November 2019
An evening of a shared meal, stories, and conversation focused on Hispanic Roanoke. Learned of the long history of Hispanics in the area and the diversity within that community.
Let's build a more inclusive Roanoke together.
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