Better Toledo Series

About the series

ICS collaborates with the Better Toledo series to provide one speaker each year. Each event is designed to enhance personal and professional development in our community. This partnership aims to serve the community and to generate curiosity and knowledge for the public good. You can learn more on the Toledo Lucas County Public Library’s website. 

The Better Toledo series is sponsored by Welcome Toledo Lucas County and the City of Toledo Human Relations Commission.

Upcoming Event

Voices and Stories From The Toledo Asian American Community

Dr. Louisa Ha

Venue: Main Library, Meeting Room 1 (Large Glass), 1st Floor
Date & Time: Saturday, May 09, 2:30–4:30 PM
Location: Toledo, Ohio

This community workshop explores the diverse histories and lived experiences of first- and second-generation Asian Americans in Ohio, highlighting both shared challenges and unique journeys. The program features discussions with Bangladeshi international graduate students and representatives from Aware Ohio’s Youth Advisory Board, focusing on immigration stories, international student experiences, generational differences, and confronting stereotypes. Participants are encouraged to share their own stories and reflect on how pan-Asian solidarity and civic engagement can help overcome challenges and build a more inclusive, connected Toledo. This event is presented by the the Institute for the Study of Culture & Society (ICS) and AWARE OHIO.

Past Events

Welcoming in Antiquity and Now

Philip Peek

September 5th, 2024

At this workshop, Dr. Peek discussed the concept of ‘xenia’, or guest friendship, as it was practiced in the Homeric epics and how it is used to foster a welcoming environment today. Launched in 2012, Welcoming Week provides individuals and organizations the opportunity to showcase their values through events and initiatives that foster connections and collaboration between immigrants and non-immigrants, as well as belonging for all. This celebration is put on globally by Welcoming America. This nonprofit, nonpartisan organization leads a movement of inclusive communities becoming more prosperous by ensuring everyone belongs. Welcoming America believes that all people, including immigrants, are valued contributors and vital to the success of our communities and shared future. In 2022, the City of Toledo and Lucas County were the first city and county to be certified Welcoming.