PLEASE
NOTE: Community
Language and Culture Bank officially
changed its name to Center
for Intercultural Organizing
in August, 2005 to better reflect our mission, work and values.
For Immediate Release
April 12, 2003
Community Language and Culture Bank
Media Contact: Kayse Jama
kayse@interculturalorganizing.org
http://www.interculturalorganizing.org
More Information: (503) 287-4117
A Kenyan Village in Portland
What does a village in Kenya have in common with Portland,
Oregon? According to local nonprofit organization,
Watoto wa Dunia (Swahili for Children of the World), perhaps
more than you think. Through Watoto wa Dunia's collaborative,
transglobal programs, the two regions are exploring their common
passion for organic gardening, community decision making, and
public education.
Operating
in opposition to our era's axiom "think globally: act
locally," Watoto wa Dunia thinks locally and acts globally.
A Board of Advisors comprised of Kenyan villagers directs
the organization’s programs from afar, and Portlanders develop
policy and implement them. And although Watoto wa Dunia operates
on an annual budget of only $5,000, they celebrate astonishing
results.
On Thursday, May 22, the Community Language and Culture Bank
hosts Watoto wa Dunia for an evening of Kenyan culture and
kid-friendly fun. Hear about life through the eyes of African
children, view photographs from the project, and learn how
Watoto wa Dunia's volunteers and sponsors have made a difference
in the past 5 years. Light Kenyan refreshments will be served.
Join us for a family event celebrating the Kenya-Portland Connection!
"I have seen how one year of school changes a child and
how years of school transform that child's future. I have
watched as the power of education saved families from being
poor, babies from dying and young girls from living lives
of servitude. And I have lived long enough to see a generation
of children, armed with education, lift up a nation."
-
Nelson Mandela, State of the World's Children Report
(2001)
Where: Portland State University,
Smith Hall, Multicultural Center
SW Broadway and Montgomery - Second Floor
When: Thursday, May 22, 2003 - 7:00 to 9:00 PM
Free
and Open to the Public
