LYNNWOOD — A multicultural fair and community dinner are planned for April 26 by a group working with the city to reach out to Lynnwood’s ethnic and immigrant populations.
“The whole idea is to interact in a family-friendly atmosphere that breaks down barriers and stereotypes and facilitates communication,” said Pam Graham, chairwoman of the Lynnwood Diversity Project.
The fair and dinner are the first major events planned by the group, which had its first community meeting on Feb. 19.
Lynnwood is participating in the Washington Campaign to Promote Racial Justice sponsored by the Association of Washington Cities. The association chose Lynnwood and Omak eight months ago as the state’s pilot cities for the project.
The Lynnwood Diversity Project was formed as part of that effort. The group’s goals are to diversify local leadership and build a sense of community, Graham said.
Even though the pilot project is scheduled to end in four months, group members and city leaders expect the work to continue.
“It’s taken awhile to get the group going and focused on a project, but I think the group is excited and there are some good opportunities for the city to increase minority involvement coming down the pike,” said Robin Hall, Lynnwood human resources director.
The city plans to have a booth at the multicultural fair and use the event to encourage more minorities to get involved in city government, Hall said.
Asians, Hispanics and Pacific Islanders make up a quarter of the city’s population, according to the 2000 census, but only four minorities serve on city boards and commissions, Hall said.
“One of the focuses for the whole project is to help identify leaders in the community from diverse backgrounds so more voices are involved in our leadership and the community is represented more,” Graham said.
The fair is also expected to feature booths with information about different cultures, storytelling, crafts, dancing and ethnic food, she said.
To volunteer to help with the fair or for more information, call Pam Graham at 425-670-8984. To get involved in the Lynnwood Diversity Project, call the city at 425-775-1971.
Katherine Schiffner is a reporter for the Herald in Everett.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
