Establishing a broader understanding of what makes us different, in the end, will unite us. That was part of the message from this month’s diversity conference at Indian Hills Community College.

Several hundred people from throughout southern Iowa attended the conference with the hopes of gaining insight into bridging those differences.

After all, southern Iowa is more than white Anglo-Saxon Christian businessmen who have a wife, 2.4 children and a dog named “Rover.”

We are, in fact, a much more diverse community — a tapestry of ethnic groups, religions, political views, gender, sexual orientation, different generations, different capabilities.

Learning more about our neighbors provides us with a more worldly view and perhaps, a better look at who we are.

And recognizing and celebrating our diversity is a key component in attracting more people to live and work in the area.

This week’s passage of the sexual orientation ordinance by the Ottumwa City Council is an important step in opening doors to more people. That coupled with events like the diversity conference and International Day, presents southern Iowa in a more positive light.

A picture of tolerance goes a long way in attracting more people to our communities, which in turn will expand economic opportunities and quality of life issues.

No one expects that we can ever really understand those things that make us different.

But showing a modicum of respect and understanding toward everyone will go a long way in making southern Iowa a better place to call home.