February 2024

03/20 at 11:30 a.m. - Omaha Table Talk - Neurodivergence: Navigating a Neurotypical World


03/26 12:30 p.m. - Jane H. & Rabbi Sidney H. Brooks Conversations for Change Series with Special Guest Bob the Drag Queen


04/24 at 6:00 p.m. - Native Table Talk - A Resilient People

A Time to Reflect

This month marks a significant milestone as I celebrate seven years of service at Inclusive Communities. As I take a moment to reflect on this journey, I am overwhelmed with a deep sense of gratitude and admiration. These past years have been characterized by remarkable change, growth, expansion, and many opportunities. It is an honor to be part of an organization that stands as a beacon of commitment to creating an equitable and thriving ecosystem.



Throughout our collective journey, we have encountered our fair share of challenges and triumphs, setbacks and breakthroughs. While the road to progress hasn't always been smooth, it has undeniably been rich with meaning and importance. Each step forward has served as a testament to our unwavering dedication to the cause of equity and justice.


Inclusive Communities embodies the spirit of resilience and determination. As our team has grown from 10 to 13 members, we remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering a world, internally and externally, where every individual is valued and empowered.


I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our journey—whether through your time, talents, or resources. Your unwavering support has been the driving force behind our progress. Together, we can—and will—build a future where inclusive communities are the default.



Cammy Watkins

Executive Director

CONVERSATIONS FOR CHANGE - TIME CHANGE ANNOUNCEMENT

RESERVE YOUR SEAT

Please take note: this year's Jane H. & Rabbi Sidney H. Brooks Conversations for Change has been rescheduled to start at 12:30 p.m. two hours later than originally planned. We hope you can still join us as we welcome non-binary comic and actor, Bob the Drag Queen, to Omaha!


Conversations for Change is dedicated to advancing the legacy of the Brooks' by fostering learning through dialogue and building connections across diverse cultures and identities.


Renowned for winning the title of 'America's Next Drag Superstar'

on Season 8 of RuPaul's Drag Race, Bob brings unapologetic confidence and charisma to the stage. As a co-host of the Peabody Award-winning reality series We're Here, Bob introduces small-town residents to the transformative world of drag performance for one unforgettable night.


Don't miss this opportunity to engage with Bob the Drag Queen and explore important conversations surrounding identity, inclusion, and empowerment.


Tuesday, March 26, 2024

12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

Holland Performing Arts Center

1200 Douglas St., Omaha, NE 68102


Tickets are FREE, but reservations are required and are on a first come first serve basis. If you have any questions, contact Brittany Wright, Director of Operations at brittany@inclusive-communities.

org.


For sponsorship opportunities, contact Lachelle Rankins, Director of Strategic Partnerships at lachelle@inclusive-communities.org.

OMAHA TABLE TALK

REGISTER for our upcoming Omaha Table Talk!


Neurodivergence: Navigating a Neurotypical World

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center

6400 University Drive South

Omaha, NE 68182

REGISTER HERE

There is a virtual and in-person option to attend. If attending in-person, food will be provided.

IN THE MEDIA

Recently, Cammy sat down with Joey McKernan, host of Your Nonprofit Coach to discuss the growing shifts needed to face workplace challenges within the nonprofit sector. Give it a listen!

Your Nonprofit Coach Podcast

REMINDERS

Are you interested in volunteering with us? Attend our upcoming volunteer facilitation training!


Thursday, March 21, 2024

5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Virtual

REGISTER HERE

We are now part of the Hanscom Park Neighborhood at The Center.


1941 S 42nd St.

Suite #380

Omaha, NE 68105


Open House announcement coming soon!

Previously on Omaha Table Talk

Partnership with AVP Life & Re-Entry for the System Impacted

Embracing One's Light

by Ang R. Bennett

“You’re too humble.” It’s a phrase I’ve heard countless times, and each time it leaves me pondering its meaning. How can one possibly be “too” humble when humility is regarded as a virtue? This observation has followed me throughout my life, influencing how I perceive myself and interact with the world. 


At almost thirty-four years old, I’ve amassed a decent collection of achievements that, in solitude, I express my pride. From winning several art awards to showcasing my work at the local and national level, continuing to be an All-American athlete well into the age considered past the prime of your sport, and even succeeding at new creative endeavors with no prior experience, I’ve navigated various challenges and conquered significant obstacles. Yet, when it comes time to talk about myself, I find that I downplay these accomplishments, choosing instead to highlight community work and the achievements of those around me. 


Reflecting on this pattern, I realize that it may stem from my upbringing as the middle child of three. In a family dynamic where attention was often divided, I learned to do just enough to not take the attention away from my siblings. This meant that I often found solace in the shadows. The shadows are comfortable, quiet, and unassuming. But, they also carry the risk of being overlooked and the challenge of asserting one’s voice.

 

In a world that often equates humility with self-effacement, finding the balance between acknowledging one’s accomplishments and remaining grounded can be daunting. But, humility, I’ve come to realize, is not about denying our light; it’s about embracing it with authenticity and grace. It’s about owning our story and sharing it unapologetically, not out of arrogance, but out of a genuine appreciation for the journey that has brought us where we are today.


So, the next time someone tells me, “You’re too humble,” I’ll take it as a reminder to shine my light a little brighter, to share my story with confidence, and to embrace the fullness of who I am. True humility, I believe, isn’t found in concealing our talents, but in generously sharing them with the world, understanding that our value isn’t measured solely by the accolades we receive, but by the positive influence we have on those around us.

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