Civic Diversity and Dialogue

For over a year, a small group of people from Schuyler and Yates Counties have been meeting regularly at Milly's Pantry in Penn Yan, NY to discuss and share ideas and information on diversity, social and racial justice. The group initially came together after the Trayvon Martin incident in Florida. At that time, nationally, the need for community conversations about race and justice was recognized by many people. A number of formal sessions and presentations were done on issues related to racial justice, poverty, education and health care. The group continues to evolve. Currently members of the group meet over lunch at Milly's on alternate Thursdays at noon. There are ongoing discussions about connecting with Keuka College faculty and students over issues of diversity, local, national and international issues.

We all know that diversity is much bigger than race alone. There is cultural diversity of all sorts based on nationality, levels of abilities and disabilities, religious beliefs, economics, sexual orientation, etc. This group discusses them all and tries to find solutions to problems raised by diversity or the lack of it. The group welcomes new members and participants from Schuyler, Steuben, Yates or other surrounding communities. You can visit the groups Facebook page at Civic Diversity and Dialogue. Visit and Like the page and if you can join us. Our next meeting is September 11th. If our meeting time or place changes we will post information on the Facebook page.

Making sure people discuss issues and work together toward solutions with civility and respect is good for everyone. Exposing people to new and different ideas or experiences can and should be fun. That's part of what we're up to with our little group.

Milly's Pantry itself is an example of positive, civic and civil dialogue in a community. The organization located at 19 Main St. in Penn Yan is responsible for the child BackPack program in Yates County, making sure kids have food and school supplies in a rural, economically challenged area of upstate NY. Their motto 'So Children Won't Go Hungry', is a worthwhile mission. Volunteers man a Cafe and artist vendor area, where proceeds all go to support the local BackPack program. Take a look at Milly's website Here.