Panelists reflect the richness and complexity of the South Sound community.
The last census shows the changing complexion of this nation, state and community. How do those changing demographics alter this community? How do those population shifts affect thinking and attitudes toward others?
Those are some of the questions Diversity Panel members can – and do – explore in their weekly columns on The Olympian’s Opinion page.
Diversity Panel members help educate South Sound residents on the breadth of diversity – the steps toward progress and the barriers to a united community.
Dean Hosni, for example, is just completing his term on the panel. He has written a number of insightful columns on Muslims, their beliefs and traditions. It was Hosni’s hope, and ours, that through the explanation of his religion he could help inform others and bridge a gap that sometimes exists between people of different faith traditions.
As a person with disabilities, Virginia Towne helped educate South Sound readers about programs that are available to enrich lives. She also wrote about the obstacles that sometimes face people who use a wheelchair.
Kris Coyner, an activist for immigration justice and civil rights, sparked many comments on columns when she talked about equal rights for same-sex couples. She and her partner are raising 2-year-old triplet daughters.
Angel Roberson, an African American, shared many experiences about family life and life challenges, while Kevin Deleon wrote about issues ranging from roundabouts to Guantanamo detainees.
All five columnists added to the richness of our community discussion on issues of diversity and we thank them for their service.
Now, it’s time to pick their successors.
Diversity Panel members serve as advisers to newsroom editors and as sources on stories. They take turns writing a column that appears on this page each Friday.
Column writing is the primary duty of Diversity Panel members. Their columns explore the diverse aspects of community life in South Sound. Panelists from previous years have written about everything from cultural holidays to specific legislative proposals. Members select their own topics and take criticism and praise for what they write.
Is that something that interests you?
Members of the Diversity Panel sign up for a one-year commitment. By year’s end we hope to appoint five or six Diversity Panel members for the 2012 term.
The deadline for submitting a letter of application is 5 p.m. Friday.
The panel should reflect a cross-section of this community. Yes, cultural diversity, and ethnic diversity and physical ability are important. Those are voices that need to be heard in our changing community. The Diversity Panel should span generations and reflect the rich working environment of South Sound.
For example, people with disabilities see the world differently from those without. Gay men and lesbians deal with issues that merit community discussion, and people of color bring a unique perspective to work and social life in South Sound.
The application process consists of two sections: a letter of self-nomination and a 600-word sample column.
In the letter of application, tell us about yourself, why you are interested in serving and what you feel you could add to the Diversity Panel. Please include information about your cultural and biographical background.
The column should be a representative sample of what you propose to write about during the coming year. Back up your opinion with solid reporting.
Send the self-nomination and sample column to: Diversity Panel, The Olympian, 111 Bethel St. N.E., Olympia, WA 98506. The fax number is 360-357-0202, and the e-mail address is news@theolympian.com.
The Olympian is eager to hear from you by Friday’s deadline.
