COLDWATER – Council members of the City of Coldwater, as well as Commissioners for Branch County, signed proclamations recognizing the month of October as Cultivating Community Month.

The proclamations acknowledge that the City and the County each strive “to be a welcoming community.” They identify themselves as vibrant communities of “people of many backgrounds, cultures, religions and nationalities, and these diverse backgrounds add to the unique character” of the City and of the County. Both proclamations acknowledge celebrating cultural similarities and differences, and that using the arts for cross-cultural learning helps to foster a connection between residents. 

The City of Coldwater Proclamation was passed at the Council meeting September 12, 2022. The Branch County Proclamation was passed at the Commissioners meeting on September 27, 2022.

Throughout the month of October Branch County organizations have joined together to offer opportunities to celebrate the diversity of our community and recognize our connectivity to each other. Events have used art, music, dance, speakers, book reads, conversations, and food to celebrate Arab, Hispanic, Potawatomi, German, and other cultures as well a way to recognize the diversity and acceptance of LGBTQ+. As a small community in rural Michigan, our diversity is very different. The objective of the month-long schedule is to seek, share and celebrate how we are connected.  

Organizations presenting Cultivating Community events include Tibbits Opera House, Branch District Library, KCC Grahl Center, Branch Area Careers Center, Coldwater Area Chamber of Commerce, Young Michigan Dances, Aira, Hope Café and Branch County Community Foundation. Details on upcoming events can be found at www.cultivatingcommunitybc.weebly.com or Facebook/CultivatingCommunityBC.