Growing Up in Small-Town Wisconsin: A Reflection on Diversity
Growing up in a small town in Northeastern Wisconsin, it was easy to think of my surroundings as a simple, homogenous bubble. The demographics? Predominantly White. Yet, looking back now, I realize that my childhood was far more diverse than I understood at the time—and for that, I am incredibly grateful.
Diversity in the Whiteness
From the outside, my town might have seemed like your typical small Midwestern community. But in the midst of its whiteness, there were pockets of rich cultural diversity. My Puerto Rican neighbors on Marquette Street brought vibrant food, music, and celebrations into my life. My cousins, with their Nigerian heritage, shared family stories and traditions that fascinated me as a kid. There was also a significant Hmong population in the area, adding layers of culture I didn’t fully comprehend until later in life. And in the mid-90s, I saw an increase in Mexican-American families moving into the community, enriching it even further.
At the time, I didn’t know this was special. It was simply my world. I didn’t have the perspective to understand that not everyone grows up surrounded by such a mix of backgrounds, languages, and traditions. I played with kids who were different from me, shared meals with their families, and attended events without giving a second thought to how unique those experiences were. It was just life.
A New Perspective in Vermont
Fast forward to now: I’m living in Vermont, a state known for its beauty but also for its overwhelming whiteness. Raising my kids here has made me reflect deeply on my childhood and the importance of exposure to different cultures. I didn’t realize how formative those early experiences were until I found myself in a space where such diversity is harder to come by.
Now, I actively work to create opportunities for my children to engage with cultures beyond our own. Whether it’s through books, travel, food, or attending cultural events, I want them to see and celebrate the richness of diversity. I want them to have what I had—a childhood filled with people, stories, and traditions that expand their understanding of the world.
Why It Matters
Representation and exposure matter. They shape the way we see others and ourselves. They build empathy, curiosity, and connection. Growing up in Wisconsin, I didn’t know that my everyday interactions with my Puerto Rican neighbors or my Hmong classmates were shaping the way I approach the world today. But now, as an adult, I see those moments as gifts—gifts I want to pass on to my kids.
Living in a predominantly White space again has shown me how easy it is to slip into a bubble where other perspectives are out of sight and out of mind. That’s why I’m intentional about breaking that cycle. Because while I didn’t understand it at the time, the diversity I experienced growing up was a privilege, and I want my kids to have that same privilege—to know, love, and learn from people who are different from them.
Creating a More Inclusive Future
Whether you grew up in a small town like mine or somewhere completely different, we all have the ability to cultivate spaces where diversity is celebrated. It starts with curiosity, openness, and the willingness to step outside our comfort zones. As parents, mentors, and community members, we can create opportunities for the next generation to experience the richness of cultures, just as I unknowingly did growing up.
So, here’s my challenge to you: How can you bring more diversity into your life and your community? Whether it’s attending a cultural festival, supporting local immigrant-owned businesses, or simply having conversations about different traditions, every little step matters. Together, we can build a future where diversity isn’t just appreciated—it’s celebrated.
