Last May, we hosted a lively talk-show-style virtual event called Discover Diverse Des Moines to celebrate the publication of our annual Inclusion magazine. The event was extraordinarily popular; hundreds tuned in to hear ideas from community leaders on where and how to enjoy the city’s diverse stores, restaurants, parks, cultural attractions and more.
We received so much positive feedback that we decided to regularly cover the topic in the magazine. For this issue, we asked Zumi owner Lu Spaine to let us in on her top global spots around town. Find out what she told us, here.
Of course, in the past year, diversity, equity and inclusion—in terms of gender, race, ethnicity and sexual preference—have been in the limelight more than ever. Rightfully so. But as we put this issue together, one aspect of DEI that’s easy to overlook kept coming to my mind: age.
More often than not, it seems both children and older people are ignored or dismissed. As you read this issue, though, you’ll clearly see why that should never be the case. We spotlight people at both ends of the age spectrum who will buoy your spirits with their grace, wisdom and joie de vivre. This year’s Sages Over 70 inspire with lessons learned through a lifetime of experiences both painful (racial discrimination, losing a child) and joyful (mentoring others, serving society’s most vulnerable residents).
Then in Mini Makers, you’ll meet three irrepressible middle schoolers who have turned interests such as baking and jewelry-making into successful entrepreneurial adventures.
You can even catch a glimpse of the type of people these dynamos could become, as this issue also features others who have transformed their passion into their business, whether they’re brewing coffee, distilling whiskey, or making wedding cakes.
All of us on the dsm team feel lucky that we can pursue our passion: bringing you stories of the people and places that enliven and enrich Greater Des Moines. And as the Thanksgiving season approaches, we remain grateful to you, our readers, for giving us a way to share the stories of the community we love.
