Clark County Press, Neillsville, WI

September 23, 2009, Front Page

Transcribed by Dolores Mohr Kenyon

Diversity Day held at The Highground

By Peter Spicer

Over 350 students from five schools attended Diversity Day on a warm and sunny Tuesday, Sept. 15, at The Highground.

Neillsville eighth grade, Auburndale Elementary School fifth and sixth grade, Emmanuel Lutheran School in Wisconsin Rapids, Phillips Middle School and Abbotsford Alternative School students attended Diversity Day.

A total of 50 Highground volunteers helped with Diversity Day, including guiding students to many presenters, including Mennonite Keith Searce, flutist Joan Johannes, Swedish folk art presenter Carol Bender, Slovenian artifacts presenter Bill Snedic, the Center for Independent Living, Holland?s Family Cheese, Debbie Crow Dancers and The Highground Drummers, forestry presenter Don Streiff and Michael Rave of the Ho-Chunk Nation.

Diversity Day helped students celebrate similarities, and differences, recognize misinformation, claim pride in group identity, understand through stories the personal impact of discrimination and learn hands-on tools for dealing effectively with discriminating comments and behavior.

Students discovered independent living for people with disabilities, explored new cultural traditions and learned about respect, duty, honor and country during a tour of The Highground.

Students dance with the Debbie Crow Dancers during The Highground?s Diversity Day held Tuesday, Sept. 15. The Highground Drummers played music while students danced. (Photos by Peter Spicer/Clark County Press)]

Students focus on completing bead work during The Highground?s Diversity Day held Tuesday, Sept. 15. Over 350 students from five schools attended Diversity Day on a sunny and warm day.