World Day on the Mall Celebrates Diversity in the Workplace
Weaving Cultures Together is the theme of the 11th annual World Day on the Mall celebration which will take place on Wednesday, September 10th. Opening ceremonies will begin at 11:45 a.m. with a keynote address given by Lieutenant Governor Rick Sheehy.
World Day on the Mall began in 1997 as “Pride in Public Service Day,” a day to recognize the service of state employees. It has evolved to include a celebration of cultural diversity and to provide a learning experience for employees to explore, understand, and appreciate their differences. This event provides educational presentations as well as cultural entertainment, ethnic foods, and information vendors.
This year’s entertainment includes: Sangre Azteca, a Mexican dance group; Son Del Llano, a band that revives the classic sounds of 1950’s and 60’s Havana; and, the Southeast High School Step Chain.
Several food vendors, including ConAgra, Jan’s Indian Taco’s, The Parthenon, and Pastabilities will give attendees an opportunity to try different ethnic foods.
This year there will be two educational presentations. Nancy Montanez-Johner, USDA Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services will be joined by Dr. Brian Wansink, Executive Director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, in presenting a 15-minute presentation entitled “Loving Your Family – Feeding Their Future.” Following their presentation, ConAgra will have ongoing 10-minute demonstrations of the healthy-cooking principles discussed in Montanez-Johner and Wansink’s presentations and will provide free samples to attendees.
Also presenting will be Leticia Barajas, owner and President of Connections Around the World, L.L.C., a management and marketing consulting firm that specializes in engaging emerging markets. Leticia Barajas will present a program entitled “Bridges to Success with Limited English Clients.” This hour and a half program will assist attendees in learning new ways to provide customer service to individuals whose cultural or language barriers may interfere.
This year’s World Day on the Mall takes place on Centennial Mall located east of the State Office Building in downtown Lincoln at 15 & M Streets from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
I encourage you to participate in the many entertainment and educational opportunities that this year’s World Day on the Mall will provide.
For a complete schedule of activities or for more information on this event, please visit the State Personnel webpage and click on “World Day on the Mall” or contact Charles Roberson at 402-471-3678.
Sincerely,
Carlos Castillo Jr., Director
Administrative Services