On April 28, 160 middle school students representing 13 area middle schools traveled to Grand Valley State University to participate in the Spring Calling All Colors conference.

The day was opened with a welcoming by Ken James, the Assistant Vice President for Affirmative Action at GVSU. Following the welcoming was a Keynote Address presented by Nancy Haynes and Liz Keegan with the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan who shared real life experiences of housing discrimination in west Michigan.

Then, the students shared action plans which they created and implemented in their schools to create a greater appreciation for diversity.

During the morning session, students participated in the diversity dialogue, "Archie Bunker's Neighborhood". This interactive simulation gave students the opportunity to learn about economic disparities and housing discrimination. Following the simulation, students shared their reflections.

As one student said, "I learned that something I used to do was actually racist. This experience has helped me to see through other people's eyes. This has taught me to think before I say things."

In the afternoon, students participated in cooperative games in which they interacted with peers from other schools and racial and ethnic backgrounds, working together and making new friends.

One student commented, "I really like the games. It is a great chance to meet students from other schools and make new friends."