The weather has started to cool off, signaling summer is coming to an end. However, Saint Louis has a few more festivals left to show off the diversity in our region that is often overlooked. One prominent example is the International Institute’s Festival of Nations, which took place this past weekend.

The Festival of Nations offers a chance to interact with people from many different cultures. Like many festivals, the food is a highlight. My favorite part is walking around, deciding what new foods to try, and seeing what is popular based on what everyone seems to be carrying around. But the festival offers more than just food. Booths that show off and teach arts and crafts can be found, like at other festivals.

The festival reflects the tremendous diversity found across the Saint Louis area; however, it last only two days once a year. Diversity offers resources to the region that should be appreciated by its citizens all year long. Yes, the region is not perfect, but we can take ownership of local issues, talk about them, and listen to what others are saying. By recognizing diversity as a resource, we can take advantage of its benefits and strengthen our community.