Published May 3 2023
Women’s group shares journey of rediscovery and offers chance to learn more about civic engagement program
The community is invited in the next Cultural Conversations session to explore how moving to a new place impacts our identity, and to hear from a storyteller who rediscovered and reclaimed her identity after immigrating to the United States. There is also a chance to learn about the city’s Bellevue Essentials civic engagement program.
On Tuesday, May 16, 1-2:30 p.m., the Cultural Conversations program will offer connection through storytelling and small-group conversation at Crossroads Community Center, 16000 NE 10th St.
This month’s storyteller is Negin Khanloo, who will share her inspiring journey as an immigrant. When she came to reside in Bellevue, she had to navigate unfamiliar territory while grieving the loss of her home and family. However, her story is one of resilience, and Negin will share how crucial it was to have mentors as she navigated her new environment, as well as how she continues to mentor women who have made similar journeys. A strong advocate for women’s rights, Negin uses her own experience to make a difference in her community and help others. Her story will be followed by small table conversations where all are welcome to participate.
Enjoy tea and conversation through this program that aims to inspire connection with others. Women of all ages, faiths and cultures are encouraged to attend. Cultural Conversations has transformed relationships and perspectives among diverse women in our community through education and storytelling since 2010.
Prior to the Cultural Conversations session, an informational meeting about the Bellevue Essentials program will be held at noon. Bring your lunch and learn about the 11-week civic engagement program, which is designed to open your eyes to the “who,” “what” and “why” of city government and the avenues to get involved. Bellevue Essentials reveals the daily structure and operations of city government – the work, the challenges and the collaboration between staff and community that make Bellevue a great place to live, work and play.
To fully participate, attendees are encouraged to plan for childcare. Please RSVP at neighborhoodoutreach@bellevuewa.gov or 425-452-6836 and indicate if you will attend the noon orientation, 1 p.m. Cultural Conversations session or both meetings.
For alternate formats, interpreters or reasonable accommodations, please call 425-452-7917 (voice) or email jellenhorn@bellevuewa.gov. For complaints regarding accommodations, contact the city's ADA/Title VI administrator at 425-452-6168 (voice). If you are deaf or hard of hearing dial 711. All in-person meetings are wheelchair-accessible.