Afghan Listening Session Highlights and Addresses Community Needs
On Saturday March 2nd, various nonprofit organizations, State Representatives, and MBMM/ACE Center staff met with dozens of members from Lowell’s Afghan community. The goal was simple- to understand the needs, collaborate effectively, and find ways to provide support to those who need it most. Hosted through partnership and financially supported by the efforts of AAPI (Asian American & Pacific Islander) Commission, this event played a pivotal role in fostering conversations about areas of need, and centered around ways in which these community needs can be best supported.
What was highly encouraging at this event was the number of people in attendance who shared a common goal for supporting the needs of not only the Afghan community, but new immigrants in other communities as well. Along with members of the Afghan community, the event also included representatives from the Asian Caucus, Tackey Chan and Vanna Howard, Chair Gary Chu and Commissioners Moana Bentin, Meena Bharath, and Ekta Srinivana. In addition, we were also joined by the City of Lowell’s head of housing, the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, City of Lowell DEI Officer Ineabelle Dominguez, and Gwen Junghanss of the Pollard Memorial Library.
Of the conversations had during the Listening Session, there were several themes that arose, with the main areas of concern surrounding educational barriers, affordable housing, occupational opportunities and mental health struggles. Other topics addressed at the Listening Session included bridging gaps in health communication, and the need for cultural recognition.
Between our Bhutanese and Afghan Listening Session, we are hoping that communication within the local, state and national level will implement systemic change for newly immigrated communities. While we are aware that change cannot be made overnight, it is our belief that by beginning this conversation, we are bringing to light many of the challenges that Lowell’s community members face, but also presenting them with the resources they need to overcome barriers. Overall, both Listening Sessions were very impactful, and we are optimistic that similar events in the future will continue the conversation, and help pave the way for new Americans to have a smoother transition into life in the U.S.