Cultural Conversations, Bellevue’s popular discussion group aimed at increasing cultural understanding, will host its fourth annual event from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 7 at Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE.
The program titled “Exploring Beyond What We See” is open to everyone and will feature stories from local residents and smaller interactive table conversations. Speakers will share their experiences moving past initial assumptions and discovering common ground when meeting others for the first time.
The featured talks are:
• Experiment in Progress — Prashant grew up in India and has lived in the Pacific Northwest for more than a decade. It was here that his profound transformation began by choosing experiences that allowed him to grow beyond his comfort zone. It was sparked after a series of conversations with an Indian colleague of a different social status, someone who he might never have had a personal conversation with in India, let alone be friends with.
• That’s Funny … You Don’t Look Jewish — Ngina, life coach, spouse and mother, moved to Bellevue four years ago, expecting that the city’s reputation as a diverse community would include families like hers. She’ll share her experience as an African-American living in a city where changing demographics challenge us to move past initial assumptions about race and ethnicity.
• Getting Past the First Glance — Karen, born and raised in Jamaica, is a former journalist and technical editor whose reality is often misinterpreted by people at first glance. Her strength, zest for life and unique perspective, given her vision loss, help us to see relationships and the world around us more clearly.
• A Different Lens — Ben, best known for his work behind the camera, shares his story of coming to the U.S. from Iran, making a new life here, giving back and paying forward the help he received along his journey.
This free event is open to all, age 13 and older. Participants are encouraged to RSVP at least 24 hours before the event. To register, get more information or request accommodation needs, please contact NeighborhoodOutreach@bellevuewa.gov or call 425-452-6836.
Parking is available in the city garage (P2 level), accessible from 112th Avenue Northeast; carpooling is strongly suggested.
