On February 11th in the basement of Smith-Steeb, I wrote Valentine’s day cards for students of the Columbus school district. Many of these student’s first language was not English, they spoke French, Arabic, Swahili, and Spanish. My first takeaway from this experience was how inclusive it was. Being such a heterogeneous city, it is important to include everyone, no matter their background. Having immigrant parents, I have heard stories about their immigration process and the challenges they had to face on a daily basis. When they came to New York City in the 90’s they had a tough time adapting to American traditions and pastimes. They didn’t have any family or friends in the states either, so they did not have a nearby support system. But, because it was New York City, most people were accepting and helpful when my parents needed assistance or had questions. If they had immediately come to a smaller city like Columbus or another city in the midwest, I’m sure their experience would not have been as smooth.

Because I have the privilege and opportunity to live in Columbus, I can help young students feel welcomed. I believe it is important for kids to know that they don’t have to change their lifestyle just to adapt to a new setting. It is an integral part of the community to preserve the different aspects of different ethnicities and surroundings. With this, these young kids can teach people of the greater Columbus area their traditions and why they are meaningful to them and their family.
Being from Dayton, I know the immigrant population is increasing rapidly. It’s interesting to see how the cities include and treat immigrants. For example, a new mosque was built in Dayton to incorporate those of the Islamic faith. By encompassing all religions, this lets other regions in the midwest know, and other countries across the world, that Dayton does not discriminate against people of different ethnicities who pray to different Gods. At a time when immigration is a highly disputed topic, we must let refugees and immigrants know we welcome them with open arms. Our service activity had a similar effect. By writing hand-made cards to students who speak various languages, we promoted each student’s individuality and encouraged diversity.

By emphasizing the importance of inclusivity at a young age, the students will take what they have learned and share it with family members, and later pass these teachings onto their own kids. At such a developmental and early stage of life, it is important for young people to have mentors to guide them on the right track and answer any questions or concerns they have regarding their academic and social lives, similar to the mentor-mentee program for IA scholars. I know it was a challenge for my parents to adjust to a new life in their twenties; I couldn’t imagine what if would be like for a young child. As a collective community, we must help foster and flourish the multi-cultural features of our diverse city.