By Lucy Bowman
The McPherson Coalition for Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity (otherwise known as the MCEID) is a McPherson nonprofit that strives to serve the local community. This organization, founded in 2021 by Tricia Warring and Josh Rice, works to increase programming throughout McPherson to aid underserved communities. Amanda Yamasaki, Assistant Professor of Natural Sciences, is the vice president of the coalition. In her role, she works to fundraise (through both community donations and grants) and plan events. Her contributions to the organization allow them to lead many initiatives which improve quality of life for the residents of McPherson Kansas. These opportunities address a wide variety of issues that plague our community. For example, the coalition funds the “Representation in Education Program.” This initiative supports local teachers in their efforts to effectively include diversity in lessons. The MCEID help teachers create Amazon wish lists which are then spread throughout the community. Teachers (and other organizations around town that work with youth) can apply to receive $100 worth of books. These donations will often go to teachers, childcare facilities, and even doctors offices. The MCEID also organizes pride rallies for McPherson county. This year, the coalition is working to expand the event to include activities for all ages. Programming will begin on Friday, June 9, with a drag show. The following day, a pride march will take place for the community. The festivities will end on Sunday, June 11, with final celebrations at Lakeside park. Both of these inclusion initiatives have a big impact on members of the community. Mona Lange, an employee of the business office, expressed her support for the coalition. “This organization is really important for the community of McPherson in its attempt to truly embody the sentiment of small town love.” With the recent success in programming, the MCEID has expanded to open a community fridge on Main Street. The food bank’s limited hours opened a need for food security in McPherson. According to Yamasaki, the project was created to fill the gap in food inequality. The fridge can be filled by anyone in the community, and the contents are available for any residents who are struggling. As the coalition continues to expand, they hope to include students in the planning process. Yamasaki explained involvement from the college community is limited, and that anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to join. Pride planning meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m., and board meetings are held the third Tuesday of every month at 6:00p.m.. All MCEID meetings are held at the Pink Flamingo on Main Street, and are open to the community. Yamasaki adamantly stated: “we are happy to welcome anyone and everyone who is interested in helping with any of these issues.”
