Happy 1st Anniversary!

HAPPY 1ST ANNIVERSARY, IIA FAMILY

NOVEMBER 8, 1996

Although the International Interracial Association (IIA), as a concept, started in June 1995, it wasn't until November 8, 1995 that IIA really took shape as a real association and website service. Therefore, on this our first anniversary on-line, I would like to thank all of you who have helped make IIA a true success.
In our first year, we have had over 5,500 visitors to our website. That, I think, is a true sign that the number of interracial individuals, couples who are dating interracially, parents adopting interracially, and those with an interest in interracial issues, is increasing worldwide. I'm happy to say that in reading the posts in the Comments section and in the Discussion Forum, that the overall response has been positive. This, to me, shows a definite indication that race relations are slowly improving. It also shows that more and more people are making the effort to see past the color of one's skin and are looking more at a person's heart. Thank you all.
So what's in store for IIA on the road ahead? Well, lots. This first year has basically allowed us to build a foundation of support, letting each other know that we're not alone. In the coming year, I would like IIA to take a more pro-active approach in the communities in which we all live. This will include establishing local IIA chapters worldwide to allow people to meet and hold activities together. To fulfill IIA's promise to be an international association, I will be more active in recruiting individuals to help in translating the website into other languages. I would also like to begin offering IIA membership, which will include special benefits (for example, email notification of updates to the website). The only membership requirement will be to complete our on-line survey, which will be added to the site in the next couple of months. And as always, I will continue to make the website more interesting, attractive, interactive, and easier to use. By the way, don't forget to check out our newest addition to the website, IIA Success Stories.
In the longterm, hopefully IIA won't exist. "Why?", you might ask. Well, it is my hope that race will no longer be a dividing issue in the future and that we can all learn to accept and love one another regardless of color.
Thanks again, IIA Family, for a wonderful year! I'm looking forward to another great one with you all...

Your Friend,
Konrad Hernblad
Founder and Site Manager
International Interracial Association

Although the International Interracial Association (IIA), as a concept, started in June 1995, it wasn't until November 8, 1995 that IIA really took shape as a real association and website service. Therefore, on this our first anniversary on-line, I would like to thank all of you who have helped make IIA a true success.
	In our first year, we have had over 5,500 visitors to our website. That, I think, is a true sign that the number of interracial individuals, couples who are dating interracially, parents adopting interracially, and those with an interest in interracial issues, is increasing worldwide. I'm happy to say that in reading the posts in the Comments section and in the Discussion Forum, that the overall response has been positive. This, to me, shows a definite indication that race relations are slowly improving. It also shows that more and more people are making the effort to see past the color of one's skin and are looking more at a person's heart. Thank you all.
So what's in store for IIA on the road ahead? Well, lots. This first year has basically allowed us to build a foundation of support, letting each other know that we're not alone. In the coming year, I would like IIA to take a more pro-active approach in the communities in which we all live. This will include establishing local IIA chapters worldwide to allow people to meet and hold activities together. To fulfill IIA's promise to be an international association, I will be more active in recruiting individuals to help in translating the website into other languages. I would also like to begin offering IIA membership, which will include special benefits (for example, email notification of updates to the website). The only membership requirement will be to complete our on-line survey, which will be added to the site in the next couple of months. And as always, I will continue to make the website more interesting, attractive, interactive, and easier to use. By the way, don't forget to check out our newest addition to the website, IIA Success Stories.
	In the longterm, hopefully IIA won't exist. "Why?", you might ask. Well, it is my hope that race will no longer be a dividing issue in the future and that we can all learn to accept and love one another regardless of color.
Thanks again, IIA Family, for a wonderful year! I'm looking forward to another great one with you all...