ODWC Celebrates Culture
By Charlene Greene Guest Writer
 | | NazGul Willian involves a group of women in the Pakistani dance on Friday night, April 20th. |
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On April 20th and 21st, I had the distinct pleasure of attending (for the first time) the Multi-cultural Womenís D e v e l o p m e n t Conference hosted by One Dozen Who Care, Inc. at the Hinton Rural Life Center in Hayesville. I found the overall experience to be educational, refreshing, and therapeutic. The conference brought together gifted women from various parts of
Western NC and
addressed many relevant topics for today's woman. The broad range of classes offered "something for everyone" across the spectrum of interests and cultures. It was a great opportunity to meet some awesome ladies of talent and style. I came away feeling encouraged and inspired. While there, surrounded by beautiful views of the mountains and lake, the ladies were "pampered"with the options of therapeutic massage, (which was awesome) and Mary Kay makeovers, not to mention the great food.
I really enjoyed the Panamanian and Pakistani dance presentations which wove a beautiful picture of their diverse cultures. I was not able to attend the Friday night jam session, but I heard it was great.
 | | Keynote Speaker on Friday April 20, Alicia McCullough of Gaston College speaks about the working conditions for African Americans in the Textile Mills of Gaston County, North Carolina. |
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The presenters were extremely talented and knowledgeable in their fields of expertise. While I found the classes educational and relevant, it was the two key-note speakers and their presentations that made the biggest impression on me. Alicia McCullough's presentation on the textile mills of Gaston County shed light on a previously hidden truth of discriminatory practices within the industry and the struggles of African Americans to achieve the equality and respect due them. It left me saddened that in our America "the land of the free and the home of the brave" we still have a way to go to achieve the dream. It is through events like these that help unite us as God's children. It is high time that we realize we are all made in God's image and to love without borders.
Tawana Williams presentation of her personal victory of overcoming tremendous obstacles in her life, by determination and her faith in God, was inspiring and very motivational to say the least.
In summary, this event is one I would recommend for all women to attend! Thanks to the tireless efforts of One Dozen Who Care, Inc., the event was a success in every sense of the word!
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