Published January 26 2016
On Feb. 3, 7-9 p.m., Bellevue's Cultural Conversations team will host a special community-wide presentation in City Hall's council chambers (450 110th Ave NE), exploring what it means for both newcomers and long-time residents to "feel at home" in our community. The evening will offer participants an opportunity to get fresh perspectives on living in Bellevue, build new community connections and increase their cultural understanding.
"The learning that takes place during Cultural Conversations not only changes participants, but also has the ability to influence perceptions of those who are close to us and may never have had the opportunity to attend a meeting like this," said Carol Ross a community relations coordinator with the city and co-manager of the program. "The types of conversations attendees have are varied and ongoing; it's exciting that people can build new relationships at these events."
The program will feature personal stories shared by Bellevue residents followed by small group table conversations. Participants will explore how they see home through the lens of diversity and culture, and how essential a sense of belonging is in the midst of change.
Featured storytellers will offer the following presentations:
Lived Many Locations; This One is Home
Jayant, an Indian-American consultant, who has lived in multicultural Hong Kong, Singapore, New York and now Bellevue, shares how he created a sense of home in places where he didn't know anyone.
A Place of Safety and Opportunity
Miguel, along with his wife and young children, left Mexico seeking safety from crime and violence, sacrificing career and family ties while starting over in an unfamiliar place for an opportunity to live a life tied to his values.
Youth Navigating Culture, Growth and Belonging
Nishi, Rosalie and Jessica are Bellevue high school students who have learned to navigate the culturally diverse environments of home and school, juggling the tradeoffs between personal growth and familial expectations around tradition and culture.
The event is free, open to all members of the public and recommended for ages 14 and up. Visitor parking is limited and available on a first-come first-served basis. For more information and accommodation needs, please contact Carol Ross (425-452-7917 or cross@bellevuewa.gov) or NeighborhoodOutreach@bellevuewa.gov, 425-452-6836.