Stories That Unite: How 'I am London' Builds Bridges and Celebrates Immigrant Success
As we kick off our ninth annual I am London campaign this week, we reflect on the importance of storytelling in the work we do. I am London is a campaign that showcases diversity and celebrates successful immigrants who have chosen to call London their home. The campaign aims to share their stories with our community and inspire new immigrants.
Each year, the I am London campaign reminds us of the positive impact of sharing stories. Having conversations, considering different perspectives and sharing stories allows us to come closer together. It allows us to connect, to relate and to build a community.
When we talk about diversity, equity and inclusion and improving these areas in our institutions and our community, we should always remember the human element to this field. Listening and reflecting and getting to know individuals on a personal level gives us the opportunity to experience this human element associated with diversity, equity and inclusion.
Storytelling is important for a number of reasons:
Stories help us to understand each other
Stories help provide needed context
Stories help provide a personal account of a complex issue
Stories come in many different forms and mediums
Stories help us cope and feel connected with others who share similar experiences
Stories help us feel compassion for those who have different experiences than us
Stories help us solve problems and come up with solutions
Storytelling is an important aspect of our work in the social services sector. In order to improve our communities, we need to stay open to listening to stories, sharing stories, telling stories, and most importantly amplifying unique voices to tell their own stories. This is one of the main avenues forward in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
To read stories that celebrate Muslim immigrant voices in our community, follow our ninth annual I am London campaign here: http://www.iamlondonon.com/i-am-london-2022.