South Sound issues need diverse representation

Today marks the end of my two-year commitment to The Olympian, my hometown newspaper. I am proud that this great publication listens to and provides dedicated space to the voices of culturally and ethnically diverse citizens.

As I reflect on past columns, the online comments and e-mails, I feel fortunate to have the freedom to express my opinion and views on diversity-related topics. As can be expected, not every reader shares the same views.

I became acutely aware of the differences between ignorance, tolerance and acceptance. These are the signals we broadcast when facing people or issues that are outside of our comfort zones. I feel fulfilled in that those who disagreed with my opinion exercised their right to dissent by stating their unvarnished opposing points.

In the past two years, I gained appreciation for the complexity of our local issues by reading the columns of my fellow Diversity Panel members. We live in a state with increasing populations of diverse racial, ethnic, physical disability, sexual orientation and religious backgrounds. We live in a country that opened its arms to an African-American as its next president and is electing women to public office in record numbers.

We have a growing elder population eager to remain active in our communities, and we have a lot of work to do to enable persons with disabilities to have meaningful, independent lives.

Some feel that our country is in trouble not just because of a failing economy but also because of a general lack of understanding and tolerance. I feel optimistic about the future, especially if we continue the dialogue, seek to understand and don't just throw our hands up in frustration when the issues become too hot to manage.

Diversity encompasses acceptance and respect. It means understanding that each person is unique and recognizing our individual differences. It is about listening to each other and moving beyond tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich contrasts contained within each of us.

A final thought as I sign off. My hometown paper, as many other businesses in our communities, is going through a metamorphosis. In my two years on the Diversity Panel, I learned about the news business with its deadlines, continuous improvement to keep the readers engaged and challenges in tough economic times. The Olympian's staff members work tirelessly to produce a quality publication.

I was fortunate to have Mike Oakland, the Opinion editor, as a mentor and deadlines taskmaster. I value his and other editorial staff members' efforts for consistently asking for and acting on our suggestions to publish a great product.

Thank you! Over and out ...

Lourdes "Alfie" Alvarado is deputy director for the state Department of Veterans Affairs and chair of the Governor's Affirmative Action Policy Committee. A member of The Olympian's Diversity Panel, Alvarado can be reached at alfie@dva.wa.gov.

More columns by Lourdes "Alfie" Alvarado.