Category: Nebraska Stories

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Welcoming Week Continues! More events across Nebraska!

Welcoming Week 2026 Continues!
Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect – Sept. 10-20 and beyond!
Calendar of Nebraska Welcoming Week Events

Nebraskans across the state have kicked off Welcoming Week with a great start, and we’re still celebrating! In communities from North Platte, Grand Island, and Lincoln to South Sioux City, there have been film screenings, dance parties, community art, local business tours, family fun nights & story hours, and award-winning authors engaging with youth and families in community – so many ways to connect, learn, and have fun with neighbors! 

There are events every day across Nebraska, with more in the coming days, over the weekend, and beyond! A film screening in Hastings! Outdoor movie night, Zumbathon, parade, and Latino Heritage Festival in South Sioux! Welcome Fest in Omaha! Bavarian Oktober Family Festival in Norfolk! Harvest Moon Festival and Curry Clash in Lincoln! 4th Street Festival in Grand Island, and more! Bring your family! Invite your neighbor! Ask a co-worker to join you! 

Check out a few highlights from Nebraska Welcoming Week Events & more!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Award-winning author and illustrator Pedro Martin, alongside The Grand Island Welcoming Initiative and local community partners, hosted free events that taught local neighbors how to make their own graphic memoirs as zines.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Saturday, September 12th, at VIVA North Platte in downtown North Platte, community members came together to celebrate Hispanic culture through music, food, and community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Local small business tours are one of the many ways local communities across Nebraska are connecting with neighbors. Our friends at Celebrate Siouxland in South Sioux City gathered together with neighbors to share stories, support local businesses and enjoy delicious food.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neighbors in Lincoln connected and enjoyed spending time together while playing Mahjong.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A group of community members in Fremont connected over shared experiences and stories while engaging in conversation and enjoying a meal together. 

Click here to find local Nebraska Welcoming Week events near you! Nebraskans across the state are hosting cultural celebrations, learning events, festivals, games, parades, and sharing food and stories of belonging and more! See this calendar of more than 75 events in 12+ communities across Nebraska! 

You can participate in a Welcoming Week event here in Nebraska or join a virtual event or one outside the state if you are traveling – Welcoming Week is being celebrated around the world!

Here’s how you can participate if you can’t attend an event!

Print a Welcomer sign for your office/business, post on social media, or use the Toolkit to create social media graphics, email banners, or virtual meeting backgrounds in your next video call! 

Help spread the message! Share your photos and experiences with welcoming on social media using the hashtag #WelcomingWeek2026. Follow Nebraska Is Home and Welcoming America on Facebook or @WelcomingUSA on Instagram.

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Join us for Session 4 (September 2nd) – Community Arts for Wellness and Belonging

Join us as we explore how art, creativity and spaces of connection can help us care for ourselves and imagine a community where everyone belongs.

See you at Session 4 : Community Arts for Wellness & Belonging

Wednesday, September 2nd, 10:30am-12:00pm CT (9:30-11:00am MT) on Zoom

Art gives us ways to express ourselves and imagine a world of possibilities. It offers the opportunity to see the world from different experiences, connect across differences and take the time to connect with one another and imagine a world where we all belong.

During this last session, we will explore the connections between art, wellness and belonging. We’ll hear from community members who use creativity and art to build relationships, support one another, and create spaces where people feel connected and valued.

Join us to hear directly from local community leaders from Imperial, NE, share with us what is possible when neighbors come together to create a space where all belong. You will also hear from Cinthya, Cecilia & Wendy from Echo Collective – which provides the support and space for women who are immigrants and refugees in Lincoln, NE, to gather together and express their creativity and find comfort and joy with each other. We will also be having Josh Arias and Angelica Tapia from Impact Art who will let us know about the artistic transformations they do in local communities – everything from murals to connecting with youth. You will definitely not want to miss what may or may not be created during this session. 

Meet our local speakers for session four!

 

Cinthya Romana

Cinthya was born in Mexico City and has lived in Lincoln, Nebraska, since 2000. She has a degree in meditation and holistic emotional therapy from Santiago de Chile. Her business is called Sanacion del Alma, and she guides people to transform their lives for personal and spiritual growth. Cinthya enjoys spending time with her four sons and friends in her free time. When she is not around other people, she enjoys traveling, meditating, exercising, and listening to audiobooks.

 

Cecilia Vargas

Cecilia was born in Mexico and has a small business called Best Knit, where she provides high-quality handmade products through crochet, knit, tatting, and weaving. In 2020, Cecilia graduated from ECHO Collective’s entrepreneurship program, and has worked with ECHO Collective as the Fiber Arts Program Manager since 2022.

 

 

 

Jo Leyland

Jo Leyland has been a resident and supporter of her community where she served in various administrative positions for the City of Imperial for 43 years.  She is now retired and enjoys volunteering for causes that are important to her.

 

 

 

 

Tyler Pribbeno

Tyler Pribbeno is an attorney practicing law privately in Imperial, where he was born and raised. He graduated from Chase County High School and earned degrees from Chadron State College and the University of Nebraska College of Law. Tyler has served on the Imperial Community Foundation Fund advisory committee since 2011, and also serves on the Board of Governors for Mid-Plains Community College.

 

Josh Arias

Josh Arias is the co-founder of the Kearney, Nebraska-based nonprofit Impact Art, which focuses on creating and promoting positive public art. Josh attributes his passion and direction in life to his upbringing. The son of El Salvadoran immigrants Josh was born in Los Angeles, CA, before moving to Lexington, NE. His parents instilled in him a selfless spirit and a knack for expression. Art was always part of his life. After graduating from Lexington High School in 2009, his life has continued to be filled with colors. Josh gave all different art mediums a try, but it was in spray paint that he found comfort. He attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney, where he received a degree in social work, which illuminated in him a need to be a service-oriented leader. Finding healthy outlets for youth has been one of his primary focuses. Recently he’s also seen a need in advocating for mental health and stopping stigma around receiving help.

Angelica Tapia

Angelica is a Mexican-American Nebraskan artist and educator now living in Lincoln, Nebraska. She received her BFA with a minor in Philosophy from the University of Kearney in Nebraska (2021). She earned her MFA in Painting and Drawing from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with a minor in Printmaking (2025). Angelica has been in a multitude of exhibitions across Nebraska and nationally, notably at Kindred at the MONA (Kearney, Ne), Gallery 1516: Ollas Artelatinx (Omaha, Ne), and an installation for Día de Los Muertos hosted by the Smithsonian (Washington, D.C.). She is also a designer, muralist, and teacher for Impact Art, an art-focused non-profit whose mission is to create and promote positive public mural art and mentor young artists across Nebraska.

 

(You can register for the series and attend whichever dates work for you! 

Your Zoom link is unique just like you. To find your link to join, search your email for “Nebraska is Home: ‘We all Belong in Welcoming’ – Summer Welcoming Convening Confirmation”)

Please let us know what you need to be able to participate!

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that allow all participants to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact Christa Yoakum (402-438-8853 x114, cyoakum@neappleseed.org) or Eric Garcia-Mendez (402-438-8853 x113, egarciamendez@neappleseed.org). We will try our best to accommodate requests.

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Stories We Shared – Photos from Welcoming Week 2025 & Beyond!

Welcoming Week 2025: Stories We Share

Welcoming Week: September 12-21 and beyond!


Welcoming Week 2025 has been a beautiful celebration of Nebraska’s cultural richness, inclusion, and building strong connected communities – with a few more events still to come! This year, creative Welcomers across Nebraska are hosting over 70 events in more than 9 communities across the state from Scottsbluff and Grand Island to Crete and South Sioux City. Events included local business tours, community celebrations, cultural festivals and performances, main street parades, learning events and conversations, multilingual storytelling, and neighbors coming together to share space in art, music and food, all to ensure everyone in our community can feel a sense of belonging! 

Check-out these photos of a few more of the #WelcomingWeek2025 events that have happened across Nebraska:


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Celebrando Siouxland & Lotería Night with Unity in Action and many local partners

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We Are One & Salsa Night with Grand Island Welcoming Initiative

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Celebrate Crete with Doane University and Crete in Motion 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Family Fun Night with Lexington Public Library & TinaMaria – HOPE Esperanza

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Community Potluck with HOPE Esperanza & Friends

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

Lincoln Unites! Celebration & Karen Society of Nebraska service project

Join the Statewide Celebration: Nebraska Stories We Share!

This Welcoming Week kicked off a story gathering effort that continues after Welcoming Week through the year. Nebraskans everywhere are lifting up the journeys, traditions and roots that connect us all. 

It’s easy to join! Just follow these easy steps:

  1. First, select a story prompt to use to tell your story.
  2. Second, select how to share your story.
  3. Third, use our toolkit to find tools and resources to help tell your story. 

Access the toolkit here to learn more and join us! 

(You will have access to social media templates, and printouts for in-person gatherings)

Don’t forget to submit your own story and be featured on Nebraska is Home social media, helping inspire connection and belonging across our state. Together, we’re showing that We Belong Together. 

 

Beyond Welcoming Week events to come!

Click here to find a few more local Nebraska events NEAR YOU! …And then Nebraska communities’ local inclusion and belonging work continues! Take a moment to reflect on your Welcoming Week and the opportunities to build upon it – whether inviting someone new you met to another community event, continuing your personal learning, expanding community learning, or maybe just regrouping with other Welcomers to say “What’s next?” 

Thank you to all for celebrating Welcoming Week 2025 and for being an integral part of what makes Nebraska home for so many! Please reach out to us to support additional welcoming and belonging efforts throughout the year.

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Welcoming Week Continues! More events across Nebraska!

Welcoming Week: September 12-21 and beyond!

& Public Calendar of Nebraska Events

Nebraskans across the state have kicked off Welcoming Week with a great start and we’re still celebrating! In communities from Scottsbluff to South Sioux City, there are film screenings, dance parties, community art, local business tours, family fun nights & story hours, local service projects, street food – so many ways to connect, learn, and have fun with neighbors! 

There are events every day across Nebraska with more over the weekend. Bring your family! Invite your neighbor! Ask a co-worker to join you! 


 

 

 

 

Community members celebrate Lincoln’s 4 Star Welcoming City Certification reflecting years of community collaboration across sectors to ensure all residents can fully participate in and contribute to community life. Lincoln joins Crete as the second Certified Welcoming City. 


 

 

 

 

Grand Island Neighbors gathered for the 4th Street Business Tour! 


 

 

 


Latino Festivals are happening in many communities during Hispanic Heritage Month. 

 

Click here to find local Nebraska events NEAR YOU! Nebraskans across the state are hosting cultural performances, learning events, festivals and parades, and sharing food and stories of belonging and more! See this calendar of more than 70 events in communities across Nebraska!

Join a virtual event or participate in a Welcoming Week event outside Nebraska if you are traveling – Welcoming Week is being celebrated around the world!

Participate in the Statewide Effort: Nebraska Stories We Share!

This Welcoming Week, Nebraskans everywhere are lifting up the journeys, traditions and roots that connect us all. 

It’s easy to join: share your story using one of our prompts and post on your own social media, share in person or submit your story to us! 

Click here to learn more about the effort and join us!

Don’t forget to submit your own story and be featured on Nebraska is Home social media, helping inspire connection and belonging across our state. Together, we’re showing that We Belong Together. 

 

Print a Welcomer sign for your office/business, post on social media, or use the Toolkit to create social media graphics, email banners or virtual meeting backgrounds in your next video call! 

Reach out to Eric and Christa if you’d like to discuss doing something in your workplace, among friends, at your place of worship or somewhere else. We have some ideas that could be done with quick planning. 

Engage on social media! Share your photos and experiences with welcoming on social media using the hashtag #WelcomingWeek2025. Follow Nebraska Is Home and Welcoming America on Facebook or @WelcomingUSA on Instagram.

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Welcoming Week events across Nebraska! September 13-22

Welcoming Week 2025 is here!

Welcoming Week: September 12-21 and beyond! & Public Calendar of Nebraska Events

Welcoming Week is a great opportunity to get to know neighbors – new and old – to build strong and connected communities, to embrace the universal values of welcoming places, and to celebrate culture, helping everyone to belong and feel at home. Because our communities are strongest when everyone knows they belong. 

This year’s Welcoming Week theme “The Stories We Share“ invites us all to build understanding and celebrate our differences while also finding what we have in common. Through that understanding, we can help shape what comes next alongside our neighbors. 

Join neighbors here in Nebraska, across the country and around the globe, where community members are recognizing, no matter where we’re from and our different backgrounds, our common values and our future call on us to imagine what we can achieve when we listen and learn from one another. Across Nebraska, there are film screenings, dance parties, community art, local business tours, family fun nights & story hours, local service projects, street food – so many ways to connect, learn, and have fun with neighbors!

We know that here in Nebraska, welcoming is a core part of who we are, and we have a proud history of welcoming. No matter our different backgrounds, we share traditions and stories that started first in community, in finding commonalities, and in supporting each other as people, friends, and neighbors. 

You can enjoy Welcoming Week whether you are organizing an activity, sharing a message of community, or are just curious about getting to know your neighbors. 

Check out these Local Nebraska Welcoming Week Events & More!

Click here to find local Nebraska events NEAR YOU! Nebraskans across the state are hosting cultural performances, learning events, festivals and parades, and sharing food and stories of belonging and more! See this calendar of more than 50 events in communities across Nebraska!

Join a virtual event or participate in a Welcoming Week event outside Nebraska if you are traveling – Welcoming Week is being celebrated around the world!

Share Your Story – Be Part of Nebraska Stories We Share!

This Welcoming Week, we are lifting up the journeys, traditions and roots that connect us all. Join people across Nebraska in Stories We Share by posting your own story or photo and using the hashtag #StoriesWeShareNE. 

Click here to learn more about the campaign and join us!

Your story could be featured on Nebraska is Home social media, helping inspire connection and belonging across our state. Together, we’re showing that We Belong Together.

Here’s how else you can participate if you cannot attend an event!

Print a Welcomer sign for your office/business, post on social media, or use the Toolkit to create social media graphics, email banners or virtual meeting backgrounds in your next video call! 

Reach out to either of us (Eric and Christa) if you’d like to discuss doing something in your workplace, among friends, at your place of worship or somewhere else. We have some ideas that could be done with quick planning. 

Engage on social media! Share your photos and experiences with welcoming on social media using the hashtag #WelcomingWeek2025. Follow Nebraska Is Home and Welcoming America on Facebook or @WelcomingUSA on Instagram.

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The more you know! SWANA Heritage Month

Celebrating SWANA Heritage Month

Hello, I’m Sara Al-Rishawi, an Iraqi American and proud Lincoln native. I’ve grown up navigating both my cultural heritage and my Nebraska roots, and every April, SWANA Heritage Month becomes a special reminder of where I come from—and how important it is to celebrate that. It’s a time to reflect on the histories, cultures, and contributions of people from Southwest Asia and North Africa, and to share those stories with others. In this post, I want to offer a glimpse into what SWANA means, why this month matters, and how anyone can be part of it.

What is SWANA?

SWANA stands for Southwest Asian and North African and its heritage appreciation month takes place in April. It refers to a large, diverse region that includes countries such as Iraq, Syria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Yemen, Iran, Sudan, and more. Many people use the term SWANA instead of “Middle East and North Africa” (MENA) because it shifts away from Eurocentric language and focuses on geography rather than colonial framing. 

From the poetry of Al-Mutannabi to the warmth of Arabic coffee shared between family and friends, the SWANA region is home to a wide range of languages, religions, traditions, and histories that span generations. As an Iraqi American, these traditions are deeply personal to me as they shape the food I eat, the holidays I celebrate, and the values I carry.

SWANA Communities in Lincoln

Lincoln has long been a refugee relocation site for families fleeing war, displacement, and instability—including many from SWANA countries like Iraq, Syria, Sudan, and Afghanistan. These communities have made Lincoln their home, contributing to the city’s cultural richness while also navigating challenges of resettlement, language, and identity.

As someone who grew up here, I’ve seen firsthand how SWANA families have built businesses, served as interpreters, enriched our schools, and brought traditions that deepen the fabric of Lincoln. Recognizing SWANA Heritage Month also means recognizing the experiences of refugee and immigrant families who are part of our neighborhoods, classrooms, and local economy.

Everyday SWANA Contributions to the World

Even if you’re unfamiliar with the term “SWANA,” chances are you’ve experienced the region’s influence in your everyday life:

  • Coffee as we know it today traces its roots to the Arab world.
  • Algebra (from the Arabic word al-jabr) and many math and science foundations originated in the Islamic Golden Age.
  • Words like “sugar,” “cotton,” and “lemon” come from Arabic and Persian languages.
  • Art and design, including geometric patterns and intricate tilework, have inspired architecture around the globe.
  • Cuisine like hummus, falafel, shawarma, baklava, and tabbouleh are now common in grocery stores and restaurants worldwide.

These contributions show how deeply SWANA cultures have shaped the world and continue to do so.

Why SWANA Heritage Month Matters

SWANA Heritage Month is about more than recognizing culture, it’s about making space. Too often, SWANA communities are misunderstood, misrepresented, or left out of broader cultural conversations. This month gives us a chance to reclaim our narratives and proudly celebrate who we are.

It also creates opportunities for connection, whether it’s hearing a familiar song, seeing your language represented, or just knowing you’re not alone in your experiences. For many SWANA-identifying people, especially in places like Nebraska, that visibility matters more than people may realize.

How You Can Support

You don’t have to be from the SWANA region to join in. Some simple and meaningful ways to support SWANA Heritage Month include:

  • Learning more about the cultures and histories of the region
  • Supporting SWANA-owned businesses, artists, and authors
  • Attending community or cultural events when available
  • Asking questions and showing genuine interest in people’s stories
  • Sharing SWANA voices and resources on your platforms

As an Iraqi American growing up in Lincoln, I’ve always held onto the beauty and strength of my culture. SWANA Heritage Month gives people like me a chance to be seen and celebrated, and it invites others to learn and grow alongside us. I hope you’ll take the time to listen, engage, and uplift SWANA voices this month.

Happy SWANA Heritage Month!

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New Year, New Perspectives: Join Our Virtual Film Series!

 

Join community leaders from across Nebraska who are fostering inclusive spaces of connection and growth! 

The New Year is here – what better way to kick it off than by deepening our understanding of the diverse stories that make Nebraska home?

Join Nebraska Is Home: “Through our Neighbors’ Eyes”, a virtual film series showcasing short films that celebrate the journeys, dreams and experiences of immigrant and refugee neighbors. Together, let’s create spaces for belonging and connection as we step into their stories. 

Save the Dates!

These three inspiring films will be followed by insightful discussions with the filmmakers and local Nebraska leaders. Bring your cocoa, settle by the fire (virtual or real!), and join us for a meaningful start to 2025. 

Save the dates now and register for the series!


(You can register for the series and attend whichever dates work for you!)

Film Series Schedule:

January 21, 7-8 PM CT (6-7 PM MT)
Film 1: To the State of the Good Life

Discover Raúl Arcos Hawkins’ journey as a DACA recipient and his hopes and challenges as a community leader in Grand Island, NE.

Featuring: Raúl Arcos Hawkins, executive director of the Multicultural Coalition of Grand Island, and Robert William Stevens, storyteller, filmmaker will join us for discussion following the film screening! 

January 28, 7-8 PM CT (6-7 PM MT)
Film 2: Cultures in the Crossfade: Lincoln

Explore how local musicians find harmony in Nebraska, mixing cultures and creating new music.

Featuring: Hasan Khalil, musician, barber and community builder and Josh Kun, author, academic and music critic will join us for discussion following the film screening. 

February 4, 7-8 PM CT (6-7 PM MT)
Film 3: The Healing of Harman

Follow Harman Doski, a Kurdish refugee, as he navigates hope, faith, and forgiveness in his new life in the U.S.

Featuring: Julie Uribe, writer, will join us for discussion following the film screening. 

Please let us know what you need to be able to participate!

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that allow all participants to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact Christa Yoakum (402-438-8853 x114, cyoakum@neappleseed.org) or Eric Garcia-Mendez (402-438-8853 x113, egarciamendez@neappleseed.org). We will try our best to accommodate requests. 

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Understanding Ramadan

Hello, I’m Amany Al-Barakat, a Muslim who has been observing Ramadan for the last couple of years. Ramadan is not just a month on the Islamic calendar; it is a profound spiritual journey that holds deep significance for Muslims worldwide. In this blog post, I’d like to share with you the essence of Ramadan, its practices, and its transformative impact on the lives of those who observe it.

What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims. It is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. The fast, known as Sawm, begins at dawn (Suhoor) and ends at sunset (Iftar). During this period, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in sinful behaviors.

The Meaning and Significance of Ramadan:
Ramadan holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims as it commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is a month of spiritual purification, self-discipline, and increased devotion to God. Fasting during Ramadan is not merely about refraining from physical needs but is also about cultivating inner qualities such as patience, gratitude, and empathy towards others.

What Do Muslims Do During Ramadan?
During Ramadan, Muslims engage in various acts of worship and good deeds to draw closer to God and seek His forgiveness. Apart from fasting, Muslims also increase their recitation of the Quran, engage in extra prayers, and give to charity (Zakat and Sadaqah). The atmosphere is filled with a sense of community and solidarity as families and friends gather to break their fasts together and share meals (Iftar).

Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power
One of the most significant events during Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr, often referred to as the “Night of Power.” It is believed to be the night when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The exact date of Laylat al-Qadr is uncertain, but it is most commonly observed on the odd nights during the last ten days of Ramadan. 

Laylat al-Qadr is a night of immense blessings, forgiveness, and spiritual enlightenment. Muslims spend the night in prayer, supplication, and recitation of the Quran, seeking God’s mercy and guidance. It is a time of deep reflection and introspection, as Muslims strive to maximize their worship and good deeds on this auspicious night, believing that the rewards are multiplied manifold.

Support friends, colleagues and neighbors during Ramadan:
As Ramadan is a significant time for Muslims, showing support and understanding can mean a lot to those observing this sacred month. One of the best ways to show support is by being curious and learning more about Ramadan. Educating oneself about the practices and significance of Ramadan can foster understanding and respect. Additionally, sharing well wishes such as ‘Ramadan Kareem’ (Noble Ramadan) and showing grace and patience to Muslim colleagues and friends during this time is important. Your kindness and consideration will be greatly appreciated and will help create a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone during this special time.

Eid al-Fitr: The Festival of Breaking the Fast
After a month of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection, Ramadan culminates in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Breaking the Fast. It is a joyous occasion that marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal, the next month in the Islamic calendar.

Eid al-Fitr is a time of celebration, gratitude, and unity. Muslims gather in mosques or open spaces to perform the special Eid prayer, followed by festive meals, gatherings with family and friends and the exchange of gifts. It is a day to express gratitude to God for His blessings and to rejoice in the spiritual growth achieved during Ramadan.

In conclusion, Ramadan is a sacred month that offers Muslims an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation, self-improvement, and increased devotion to God. It is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community, culminating in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Ramadan Kareem to all!

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Embracing Diversity: Lincoln Community Unites at School Board Meeting for Inclusive Education

As we all are actively creating opportunities for immigrant community members to engage with local governments, we wanted to share this recent example with you.

In a powerful display of unity and advocacy, a diverse group of community members – hailing from various backgrounds including immigrants, refugees, and indigenous people – came together at a recent Lincoln school board meeting to champion the cause of inclusive education. 

The meeting served as a platform for these passionate individuals to share their stories, voice concerns, and urge the school board to adopt policies that celebrate diversity and foster a more inclusive learning environment, where every student and their families can belong.

Kicking off the public comment portion of the Lincoln Board of Education meeting on November 28, 2023, Lisa Guill, Lincoln’s Welcoming Communities Coordinator, presented recommendations from the Lincoln / Lancaster County Welcoming & Belonging Strategic Plan. The room buzzed with a palpable energy as individuals from different walks of life united in their commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable school system. Suggestions ranged from incorporating diverse perspectives into the curriculum to providing training for educators on culturally responsive teaching methods.

Nyabuoy Chan, who works with the Asian Community and Cultural Center as the Family Resource Program Coordinator, spoke as someone who came to the community as a refugee, a parent of 5 children who attend LPS, and as a community advocate, urging, “I would love to see all of our lovely teachers to be educated about cultural competency.” Chan shared examples of unfortunate incidents that occurred within LPS that she says could be prevented if faculty receive training on cultural competency.

The school board listened attentively as community leaders presented evidence-based proposals for implementing inclusive practices. Community leaders made a compelling case for the school board to lead the way in creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students.

Steve Laravie Jr., who is the Executive Director of the Lincoln Indian Center, raised a concern that the community has about “the aspects of American Indian history and culture being interwoven into the curriculum.” The request from the community that he relayed is to ensure that there is an indigenous voice in the development of the curriculum, “as we do not want to lose another five years of misinformation concerning our history.” Leravie expressed that he felt an obligation to be present at the meeting as a representative of the original peoples of this land.

Haroon Al Hayder, speaking as an immigrant and community advocate, acknowledged the transformative power of education in fostering a profound sense of belonging in Lincoln. His testimony focused on what he defined as one key pillar in achieving the vision for a more accessible, inclusive, and equitable education system: diversity in school faculty and administrators. He presented a well-researched fact that diverse educators offer a wealth of experiences and perspectives to the classroom, which “strengthens cultural understanding among students and creates an environment where everyone’s story is acknowledged and respected.” Additionally, diverse staff can serve as role models for the youth, as well as “break down stereotypes, open doors, and encourage students of New Americans to pursue their dreams regardless of their backgrounds.”

Community members emphasized the importance of continuous professional development for teachers and staff, incorporating training on implicit bias, institutional racism, and cultural competency – coupled with policy changes to attract and retain diverse administrators and educators – all while utilizing targeted data to address educational disparities.

As the meeting concluded, there was a shared sense of optimism and determination among attendees. The call for inclusivity had been sounded, and community members left the school board meeting with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that they had planted the seeds for a more inclusive and equitable future in education. The community members that I spoke to reflected that this is just the beginning for them, and they are eager to continue advocating for inclusion locally. You can watch the video of the meeting here (public comment begins at the 23:00 minute mark).

Local school boards are a great place for community members to become involved in local decision making, and it’s vital for local school board members to hear from many voices in the community. School boards approve curriculum, which guides what students learn and talk about in the classroom, and they develop a budget for teacher pay as well as building or playground spaces that may be used for the whole community.

We encourage you to think about getting involved in your local school board or other decision making space – if you’d like ideas of where to start, please reach out!

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Photos + Videos from Your Welcoming Week!