IF YOU GO* What: Community dialogue on diversity* When: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday* Cost: Free* Location: Cleveland State Community College* Schedule: 9 a.m., opening comments; 9:15, business and diversity panel; 11, education and diversity; 1:30 p.m., Mosaic awards for community leadership and support for local diversity; 3:15, religion and diversity* Information: Visit www.mosaiccenter.wordpress.com.
CLEVELAND, Tenn. — The diversity of Bradley County and East Tennessee is the main topic for participants in a daylong community forum this week.
The Cleveland Mosaic Center and Humanities Tennessee are hosting the forum and community event for the Ocoee Region on Friday at Cleveland State Community College.
“People should leave the dialogue with an understanding that, not only is dialogue important, but it’s a vital part of the community development and it should be recognized in all aspects of community,” Cleveland Mayor Tom Rowland said.
The panel of speakers will include Dr. Ingomar Kovar, North American president and CEO of German-based Wacker Chemical Co., said Christian Hoeferle, vice president for community outreach at Ocoee Region Multicultural Services.
Wacker announced in late 2008 its plans for a $1 billion chemical plant in Bradley County.
Dr. Gary Ray, ORMS president, said this will be the first diversity forum for the region.
“As we all know, this is how America began — from many, one. We build stronger communities by recognizing our diversity,” he said.
Ocoee Region Multicultural Services was formed to serve the region and its legal immigrants, Dr. Ray said. The group does not promote illegal immigration.
The forum, “Building Community with Diversity,” is presented through the efforts of the group and the Cleveland Mosaic Center.