The Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America (MPVA) and author of the children's book series “Who I Am” which focuses on diversity and self esteem, Tara Michener, launched the first “The Dimensions of Diversity Alliance (DDA)” on February 25, 2010. The meeting was a great success as Michigan-based professionals came to the MPVA Chapter Headquarters to discuss how they could actively partner together to better their communities by creating positive perceptions and awareness regarding diversity issues.
The first meeting was kicked-off with an icebreaker which demonstrated that although the Alliance members may seem uniquely different, they are indeed extraordinarily similar. As Michael Harris, MPVA Executive Director, pointed out, “As human beings we all have the same basic needs—to be accepted and cared for.”
In addition, the Dimensions of Diversity Alliance launch brought forth some excellent dialogue regarding their goals of becoming an action oriented group as Ms. Rita Crooks, a Director of the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion, spoke about the 10th Annual Walk2Gether Michigan for Unity in the Community. The walk, which celebrates the spring season of new growth, draws thousands in the name of diversity and inclusion to Bell Isle, Michigan on May 16, 2010. It offers corporations, organizations, and individuals a great outing for a great cause.
The Dimension of Diversity Alliance hopes to help build upon these important events and causes that promote inclusion and togetherness throughout our Michigan community. In hosting the meetings quarterly, the DDA can create a platform for groups and individuals to share professional resources, unify goals, and form a strong enough interest on the subject of diversity and inclusion that we are able to change the world, or at least Michigan, for now!
At this time we would like to thank everyone who supported the first Dimensions of Diversity Alliance Meeting. We would also like to thank everyone from the PBS TV Show on Abilities, A Wider World, for filming the meeting and helping the DDA to promote their vision. Lastly, we would like to thank Glenda’s Garden Center of Novi for donating a $25.00 gift certificate that was raffled off at our launch!
-Jaclyn Kochis
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