A Prejudice-Free Anchorage

"Anchorage -- the first city without prejudice." How can we make it happen?

1. Join Bridge Builders. There is no cost. You will find the application form on this website.

2. If someone new moves into your neighborhood, drop by and welcome them.

3. If you have neighbors you have never met, especially if they are from a different culture, find an excuse to introduce yourself. One good opener is to ask to borrow something – for instance, a snow shovel or rake. (Be sure to return it!)

4. Say hello to people of other cultures you run into at the store or market. At least, look them in the eye and smile.

5. When you go out to eat, be respectful of those who serve you. Some waiters, waitresses and busboys in our city have escaped from war zones to live in freedom in America. Some were educated as engineers or doctors and are working on certification in the U.S.

6. If you work with someone of another culture, ask them to teach you a word or phrase in their former national language. If they are of Filipino origin and you want to say “thank you”…say “Sa-la-mat” and watch the smiles break out. Hello in Samoan is “TA-LO-FA.” In Tongan it’s “MA-LO LA-LEI-EE” You probably know a few Spanish greetings and responses. “Buenos dias. Gracias. Adios.”

7. Now, help brainstorm other ways to make Anchorage the first city without prejudice. Send your ideas to on how to build a prejudice-free community to: bridgebuilders@bridgebuilders.org.