Group says Iowans must work to accept immigrants

An Iowa State University poll of farmers released recently found less than half believe minorities are “well-integrated” in their communities. Indianola Mayor Jerry Kelley has been involved in the “Iowa 2010” effort to encourage Iowans to accept minorities into the state.Kelley says Iowans need to adapt to the idea that new immigrants will hold fast to their native culture.Kelley says it’s important to have “English as a second language” programs for both children and the adults who move here.Kelley says church groups and community clubs should adopt new adult immigrants and help them learn the language.The “Iowa 2010” project developed population-growing goals for Iowa. The group’s recommendations have been printed in a “Sunday supplement” which will be included in nine Iowa newspapers on September 3rd.