Editorial: The value of creating an atmosphere that welcomes diversity

Geneva is a great many things: It is beautiful, full of history, packed with quaint shops and wonderful restaurants.

The streets are well maintained, the neighborhoods are full of trees and manicured lawns. The housing stock ranges from gorgeous Victorians to upscale townhouses. The crime rate is low; the employment rate is high.

One thing Geneva is decidedly not, however, is diverse. Its population is very white, very educated and very well-to-do.

That alone isn't a bad thing, but leaders in town seem to appreciate that because of such overwhelming demographic uniformity, Geneva might not feel welcoming to everyone, and they want to do something about it.

Ninety-six percent of Genevans are white. Five percent identify as Latino or Hispanic. Two percent are Asian. ewer than 6 percent are foreign born.

Ninety-eight percent of Genevans 25 and older have at least a high school diploma. Fifty-seven of them have a bachelor's degree or more.

The median home value is $316,000.

What could possibly be wrong with this picture?

To someone who isn't white, well educated and earning $100,000 a year or more, Geneva could feel unattainable, intimidating or even unwelcoming.

According to reporter Bob Oswald, one of the primary goals identified by residents at a community forum and through a survey was for the city to be recognized as an inclusive community. That sentiment alone is important. When diversity is viewed and understood as an asset, it can be fully embraced.

The city's Strategic Plan Advisory Committee followed up by deciding to develop a diversity task force.

Ben McCready, assistant city administrator and staff liaison for the committee, said the survey and forum tell him residents want to make visitors feel welcome.

"A diversity task force shows we're moving in the right direction," committee Vice Chairman Jill Johnson said.

The committee will seek out other communities that have diversity task forces for inspiration on how to proceed. And it will continue talking to the community as it embarks on the process.

Geneva would do well to check out Coming Together, a project started 10 years ago in Skokie that has grown to include Morton Grove, Lincolnwood and Niles. Its goal is to study a different culture each year to broaden residents' understanding and appreciation for those who might not look or live like they do.