To the Editor,

For six years the Mount Pleasant Area Diversity Group has worked in our community to eradicate the “isms” especially racism, which threatens peace and harmony in Mount Pleasant and all over the world.

MPADG employs a community-based inclusive approach to promote acceptance and appreciation of diversity. Our group is actively committed to challenging obstacles that inhibit the community’s ability to respect, value and be sensitive to diversity. To this end we have organized community luncheons, provided diversity training and met with managers from area businesses and school leaders to discuss growing problems and possible solutions.

We have monthly meetings for anyone who is interested in joining us. These meetings are announced on cable Channel 2, printed in the Morning Sun and CM LIFE, and are usually scheduled for the first of the month.

In October 1998 we hosted the first Racial Harmony Conference at Central Michigan University for 150 area students, teachers and CMU students. During the conference youth shared their cultural differences, created peace banners and developed action plans to follow at their respective schools for the next year.

This March we will host the Second Racial Harmony Conference again at CMU. This year more than 200 students are invited from public, private and charter schools to learn and teach ways to foster understanding and appreciation of diversity.

The MPADG feels the world does not belong to any one race, age or gender; rather we belong to the world and it is our duty and privilege to continue building a fair and just society where all peoples can live in peace and harmony.

Through the generosity of community organizations, churches, individual donors, CMU and the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe the MPADG has carried out this work for the past six years, now we are asking for further funds to take us into the 21st Century. The Mount Pleasant Area Diversity Group is a 501-3C non-profit organization, so all donations will be tax deductible. Please make out your check to the Mount Pleasant Area Diversity Group and mail it to MPADG, P.O. Box 1293, Mount Pleasant, Mich. 48804-1293.

E-mail the author: Voice James Moreno Mount Pleasant Area Diversity Group secretary