Published March 12 2013
One person's story and experience cannot represent an entire culture or race. Bellevue women from around the world will focus on that message at the next Cultural Conversations meeting on March 19 at the Crossroads Community Center.
Sharing stories of diverse cultures and practices has always been a primary activity in the Cultural Conversations group, which includes women from many countries. But cultures have too many layers to be captured in one person's experience.
At the March 19 meeting -- 1-2:30 p.m., with free refreshments -- participants will see a film clip of a speech from Nigerian storyteller and novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie called "The Danger of a Single Story." Adichie shares the experience of finding her authentic voice, and warns that if we hear only a single story about another person or country, we risk a critical misunderstanding. Participants will have an opportunity to share their perspectives in small groups during the event.
Cultural Conversations was launched in 2010 as a partnership between diverse women in the community and the city's Neighborhood Outreach team. The concept was initiated by women who hoped to develop community connections and enhance their knowledge and understanding of different cultural practices and world views.
Monthly gatherings are free, with refreshments served, and women of all ages, faiths and cultures are welcome to attend. Meetings are on Tuesdays at the Crossroads Community Center, 16000 NE 10th St. Meetings scheduled through June are:
- April 23, 1-2:30 p.m. Stress relievers in different cultures; and
- June 4, 1-2:30 p.m. Cultural attitudes toward money and financial security.
For more information, contact Ying Carlson at 425-452-4342 or ycarlson@bellevuewa.gov or Barb Tuininga at 425-452-2800 or btuininga@bellevuewa.gov.