Last Saturday, the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA was abuzz with the tastes, sounds, and festivities of its second annual International Food Festival. The event showcased a rich tapestry of cultural cuisine, with families from the Arlington community coming together to revel in global diversity and gain access to a host of community services.
In a noticeable shift from last year’s format, attendees were treated to a bevy of informative opportunities, including community panels and a resource fair. “This year, we’re doing something a little bit different," said Cheryl McCarver, Senior Vice President of the Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA, as per the City of Arlington. McCarver emphasized the value of inclusivity, “I thought, how can we reach more people, and how can we bring information for newcomers and immigrants who come to our community? So, we’re doing panels, including a 'Making Arlington Home' panel discussion.”
Highlighted at the festival was the "Making Arlington Home" panel, which featured local dignitaries such as Arlington Council Member Raul Gonzalez and Arlington Chief Equity Officer Troy Williams. The panel honed in on the issues of housing and employment, key concerns for many in the crowd, especially newcomers and immigrants. As the YMCA works to forge community solidarity, these panel discussions have become an essential element of their outreach.
Apart from the groundbreaking discussions and the array of international delights, the event also offered much-needed services. A blood drive, a food pantry, and health services were available, providing practical assistance to community members. “At the YMCA, we believe it’s so important for all of us to understand the beauty of the different cultures that exist here in our community,” McCarver added, according to the City of Arlington. “We want to celebrate the families that are here, and our resource fair, the dances, and the fashion show are ways to recognize that we’re all different, we’re all unique, but we all come together to celebrate all that we bring to our community, right here in Arlington."
