In the heart of the Midwest, Iowa may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about cultural diversity. However, Iowa is home to a rich blend of ethnicities, each with their own unique customs, languages, and traditions. Throughout the state, you’ll find neighborhoods and communities known as ethnic enclaves, where people of certain ethnic backgrounds have settled and infused their culture into the surrounding area. In this article, we’ll explore Iowa’s cultural diversity by taking a closer look at some of these ethnic enclaves and the celebrations that take place within them.
Ethnic Enclaves
An ethnic enclave is a neighborhood or community where a large percentage of the population shares a common ethnicity. In Iowa, there are several examples of ethnic enclaves.
Little Village
Located on the west side of Chicago, Little Village is a predominantly Hispanic community that has become a cultural hub for Latinos in the Midwest. Here, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and cultural events that cater to the Hispanic community.
Czech Village
In Cedar Rapids, you’ll find a neighborhood known as Czech Village, which was settled by Czech immigrants in the late 1800s. Today, the neighborhood is home to many Czech-owned businesses and hosts annual events celebrating Czech heritage.
South Des Moines
South Des Moines is home to a large population of Bosnian refugees who settled in the area during the 1990s. The community is centered around the Islamic and Cultural Center of Bosniaks, which hosts events and programs that celebrate Bosnian culture and Islam.
Cultural Celebrations
In addition to ethnic enclaves, Iowa is also home to a variety of cultural celebrations that take place throughout the year. These events offer residents and visitors the opportunity to experience different cultures and celebrate diversity.
AsianFest
AsianFest is an annual event held in Des Moines that celebrates Asian culture through food, music, dance, and art. The festival also includes a fashion show featuring traditional Asian attire.
Latino Heritage Festival
The Latino Heritage Festival is a two-day event held in Des Moines that celebrates Hispanic culture through music, dance, food, and art. The festival also includes cultural exhibits and activities for children.
Maifest
Maifest is a German festival held in Amana Colonies, a historic community in eastern Iowa founded by a group of German immigrants in the 1850s. The festival includes traditional German music and dance, as well as food and beer.
Greek Food Festival
The Greek Food Festival is a three-day event held annually in Cedar Rapids that celebrates Greek culture through food, music, and dance. The festival also includes cultural exhibits and activities for children.
Conclusion
While some may not associate Iowa with cultural diversity, the state is home to a variety of ethnic enclaves and cultural celebrations that showcase the rich blend of traditions and customs found throughout the Midwest. By exploring these communities and participating in cultural events, residents and visitors alike can celebrate the differences that make Iowa a unique and vibrant state.