Celebrating Diversity: Summit County's New Initiative to Highlight Immigrant Contributions
In an exciting new initiative, Summit County’s government, local municipalities, and the nonprofit organization Mountain Dreamers are partnering to celebrate the rich contributions of the immigrant community. The project, dubbed #IMSummit, will officially kick off on October 15, featuring a series of engaging videos that spotlight the inspiring stories of immigrants living and working in the area.
The vision for #IMSummit was sparked by Yerania Reynoso, a program coordinator at Mountain Dreamers and a passionate advocate for immigration issues. The idea took root during a meeting of the Breckenridge Social Equity Advisory Commission, where members recognized the need to illuminate the often-overlooked narratives of immigrants. Reynoso’s explorations into the lives and professions of newcomers from countries including Senegal, Russia, and China have revealed a tapestry of stories that truly enrich the Summit County landscape.
“Every immigrant is a vital piece of our community,” said Reynoso. The #IMSummit series aims to provide a window into the diverse backgrounds of 15 immigrants, with each video featuring three individuals who will share their journeys in both their native language and in English. Flor Cruz, the bilingual community outreach coordinator for Breckenridge, emphasized that allowing immigrants to speak in their “language of the heart” is essential for authentically representing their cultures.
This initiative is more than just a storytelling project; it’s about empowering immigrants to recognize their value and contributions. Cruz noted, “Many immigrants often feel pressured to conform or catch up, but it’s vital to communicate that they bring immense richness simply by being themselves.” By celebrating their heritage and encouraging participation, #IMSummit aims to inspire greater confidence among immigrants and promote cultural appreciation in the broader community.
Reynoso pointed to the work of her colleague Javier Pineda, who established Oso Outdoors, providing ski and snowboard lessons to 50 immigrants and individuals from diverse backgrounds at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area. This initiative of inclusivity not only increases representation on the slopes but also opens doors for new experiences and opportunities.
The videos will be shared on Mountain Dreamers’ social media platforms as well as Breckenridge’s channels, inviting everyone to join in this celebration of diversity and connection. As we look forward to the unveiling of #IMSummit, it’s clear that the stories of these immigrants will not only inspire but also serve as a reminder of the extraordinary impact that diversity has on our communities.
Stay tuned as the #IMSummit showcase unfolds, highlighting the strength and beauty of immigrant contributions in Summit County and beyond!
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