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Why Are We Out to Destroy Our Diversity?

Notices, warnings and fliers accumulate at a foreclosed home. (By Ross D. Franklin -- Associated Press)

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If we recognize that immigrants do enrich our community, we stop blaming and look for solutions, such as much-maligned day-laborer centers. Where are the sincere outcries for affordable housing?

I worry that the steps advocated by those who wish to return to a neighborhood, a community, that resides in their memories are actually destroying the richly dynamic neighborhoods of today. It's time for all of us who recognize that diversity is not just to be celebrated but to be championed to speak up loudly to drown out the ugliness. Let's get back to viewing our neighbors as individuals and our communities as opportunities to grow beyond our own experiences.

-- Eileen Gale Kugler

Springfield

The writer is president of Embrace Diverse Schools, a consulting firm that works with schools and communities.

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