Community Building and Diversity Program

A main component of HCC’s activities include conducting discussion groups and forums on issues of race relations, socio-economic diversity, LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) issues, ageism and other social issues of diversity that concern members of our greater community.  HCC host sand facilitates community dialogues and forums, and small group discussions designed to encourage better communication among residents, and ultimately result in increased acceptance and understanding of one another.   HCC addresses the needs of the community as it relates to its diversity, in order to improve the quality of life in our community.  HCC’s diversity program provides an opportunity to engage in cross-cultural dialogue and activity that focus on issues of promoting diversity and appreciating and accepting one another’s’ similarities and differences.   We offer a comprehensive diversity program that focuses on different facets of our community life, including issues relating to race relations, neighbor relations and youth relations.

As HCC continues to broaden its service area and provide its programming to the greater Cleveland community, we recognize the need to address issues that pertain to appreciating diversity, and all that it means to a community. In HCC’s attempts to address community needs, we are aware of the need for dialogue, discussion, interaction and engagement that brings everyone to the table.  Through our diversity program, HCC presents a variety of waysto address issues arising from living in a community that is open and accepting of all people, yet struggling with conflicts related to differences of culture, race, lifestyle, age, and a host of other descriptions. The activities that comprise HCC’s Diversity Program will offer several different opportunities for residents to engage and socialize around issues of importance, while promoting the understanding of our similarities and differences.  Our community will ultimately be enhanced and strengthened through greater communication and increased understanding of people of different backgrounds.

HCC Activities

• Multicultural Task Force
• Community Dialogues
• Book Discussions
• Movie Discussions
• Annual Multicultural Festival

Other Resources:

• http://www.civilrights.org/
  The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human RightsThe Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights is a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the civil and human rights of all persons in the United States. Through advocacy and outreach to targeted constituencies, The Leadership Conference works toward the goal of a more open and just society – an America as good as its ideals.
• http://www.civilrights.org/fairhousing/laws/faq.html
  Fair Housing Laws FAQThere are many laws that provide relief for victims of housing discrimination. Rights and remedies can be found in federal laws, as well as laws in the state where you live.
• http://www.racialequitytools.org/
  Racial Equity toolsA web site designed to support people and groups who are working for inclusion, racial equity and social justice. The site includes ideas, strategies and tips, as well as a clearinghouse of resources and links from many sources.
• Ten Tips for Creating a Safe Space for Honest Dialogue about Race