FogHorn January 19, 2017 - Truth About Diversity that We Don't Want to See
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Armando Alvarez made a presentation to the club about the "Truth about Diversity that we Don't Want to See."
He bean by telling a little about his own life. He was the son of a Mexican father and a Jewish mother, who gave him values of social justice and diversity. His friends were different over the years, he said; when he was younger his closest friends tended to look like him and when he went to college, he realized what a big issue diversity was.
A major issue around diversity, he said, was talking about it in your own world.
He described himself as a songwriter with a goal of creating thoughtful, contemplative songs. He spoke of his brother, a scientist who worked in computer technology, who chose his particular path because the people he would work with represented diversity and he felt he could make an impact.
Alvarez spoke of the element of power among and within movements and groups of people, noting that diverse groups tend to be more innovative. He joined volunteer efforts and saw firsthand the struggles that go with diversity, and spoke of his own feelings of invisibility and of not being heard because he was in a group that didn't have power. He identified a basic truth: that diversity is about a personal relationship with power. A main thing about diversity, he said, is power and our relationship with power.
Something that is important, he said, is to see how much you're willing to change how things are. One way to bring about change has to do with one's personal relationship with power; other ways have to do with the structure of and sharing of power. He encouraged examining one's relationships with the issue of power.
He shared some of his original folk-style music, lightly fingerpicking on his guitar and singing his own original songs. His lyrics explore opportunities to look at oneself and how one fits into a relationship with diversity and power. He sang the thoughtful "Am I the Rain?" about examining where one fits into the bigger picture and one's effect on others.
He invited questions and commentary. Steve Wilson brought up millennials dealing with diversity and pluralism, especially here in California. Alvarez noted that technology has inspired many of the elements of diversity such as gender issues, increased expectations or conflicts between generations. Ralph Ely brought up community and how it is human nature to seek out those who are similar; Alvarez agreed that we do seek out those who mirror ourselves, that we do seek out the comfortable but also others who introduce new ways. Michael Arase-Barham pointed out that diversity and inclusivity are not the same, and Alvarez pointed out the importance of empathy and practicing it, and also the importance of reading.
Rosi Fontana mentioned a favorite book, "The Righteous Mind" by Jonathan Heidt, that she described as transformational for herself. It helped her understand how people of different views, such as right and left, just need to get along; Alvarez then shared his thoughts on people with different perspectives, and connection versus control.
Brian Lee shared some observations about transformations. Steve Wilson shared some final observations about diversity in our local community, Hispanic populations here or in Monterey, expectations for children, business, housing and jobs, and the power of the vote. Alvarez noted how the current election has activated people and created opportunities for the Latino community to create solutions.
Ginger Minoletti spoke of diversity of thought, and Alvarez remarked how it is hard to let go of power and perspectives sometimes.
Finally he spoke of music, of Igor Stravinsky and his nineteenth-century "Rites of Spring" which drew on "savage" cultural rhythms and premiered in Paris to not-wholly-approving audiences. He drew parallels to what we see today.
The Millbrae Club is having their tenth annual Lunar New Year banquet. It will be held at the Zen Peninsula Restaurant, 6-9:30 pm on January 27. There will be exciting entertainment, those who have gone in prior years say it is a fun event. Check www.millbraerotary.org or phone Sue at 650-652-5601.
Dictionaries are here, see Warren Barmore to help distribute.
Brian Lee announced he is leading a workshop on leadership next Wednesday from 7-8:30 at the New Leaf classroom. Call 650-759-6616 if you need additional info.
Millie Golder had good news to share. She is proud of her son-in-law who just published a book, Wrong Thinking.
Dianne Bobko needs additional nominees for Service Above Self Volunteer of the Year by Feb. 15, several folks volunteered to contact various non-profits. If you want to contact a non-profit or have a volunteer to recommend, let Dianne know.
Our exchange student, Caroline Gossart, wanted to thank Mary Rogren and her family for the recent ski trip. Apparently Mary's husband was able to keep up with Caroline!
Michael Arase-Barham, our new guy who is catching on quickly, announced that Holy Family is looking for someone to join their children's program board. No early childhood experience is needed. They meet monthly for about 2 hours. See Michael if you are interested.
Lizzy, our Interact President and District 5150 Interact Lt. Governor announced that they are raising funds for vaccinations. They've targeted four diseases, This is an international project. They recently held an ice skating party, and they are now planning a District dance party. Their goal is to raise $5,000. So far they've raised $400-500. They will keep us in the loop. Help is needed--chaperones, booth attendants, set up, clean up, food, etc. The dance will be held March 11 from 7-10.
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