Every Voice: Creating Belonging for All

Consultation has concluded

People in Owatonna have a deep sense of pride and often refer to themselves as “Owatonnans.” The term is embedded in our community and our language. At times, it has also been used to draw a line between insiders and outsiders.

To be an Owatonnan is a good thing – yet we know that each of us has a connection, a story from somewhere else at some time. That connection could be more recent. It could be 1-2 generations ago. Those varying perspectives make us a stronger community.

As our community changes and grows, it is time to expand our imagination about what it means to be an Owatonnan. How do we create a sense of belonging for everyone who calls Owatonna home? It starts with listening, connecting through shared experiences and honoring our differences.

We want to hear your story!

How did you or your family come to call Owatonna home? What do you love about this community? How can we improve our inclusivity? We need your ideas and input on how Owatonna can become more inclusive and welcoming for all. Let's make this page a space for everyone to connect, share ideas, share their story and honor each other as Owatonnans through all of our unique differences.

People in Owatonna have a deep sense of pride and often refer to themselves as “Owatonnans.” The term is embedded in our community and our language. At times, it has also been used to draw a line between insiders and outsiders.

To be an Owatonnan is a good thing – yet we know that each of us has a connection, a story from somewhere else at some time. That connection could be more recent. It could be 1-2 generations ago. Those varying perspectives make us a stronger community.

As our community changes and grows, it is time to expand our imagination about what it means to be an Owatonnan. How do we create a sense of belonging for everyone who calls Owatonna home? It starts with listening, connecting through shared experiences and honoring our differences.

We want to hear your story!

How did you or your family come to call Owatonna home? What do you love about this community? How can we improve our inclusivity? We need your ideas and input on how Owatonna can become more inclusive and welcoming for all. Let's make this page a space for everyone to connect, share ideas, share their story and honor each other as Owatonnans through all of our unique differences.

Share Your Story!

We encourage community members to share their own stories of unique perspectives and experiences. Sharing your story can either be written or done by personally recorded video messages. Photos can also be submitted.

Everyone has the right to share their story and experiences. While individuals may have varying opinions, respect each person's experience and insight. 

We would love to hear from you! 

Thank you for sharing your story with us.
CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

  • Connector at Heart

    over 2 years ago

    I landed in Owatonna in 1993, a year after my spouse began teaching students at Lincoln Elementary school. My father grew up in Winner, South Dakota, and served the US military during the height of the Vietnam War. My biological mother was from Saigon (renamed Ho Chi Minh), Vietnam. She immigrated to the US after marriage to my father while he was deployed in the mid-60's - wedding photo included.

    I’ve lived a few other places in the Midwest, larger cities and never thought I’d find myself working professionally and raising a family in a much smaller community. Twenty-eight years... Continue reading

  • Finally clean!

    by Lindseymarx, almost 3 years ago

    I moved to Owatonna after being in a lot of trouble up in Saint Paul. I am a recovering drug addict and had gotten the opportunity to live in a sober house here in town (Frazier Recovery Homes). After celebrating not 1, but two years clean I decided I didn’t want to leave. For the first time in my life I have found a good sense of security and I feel safe here. That is what was most important to me. I am so happy to say that my boyfriend and myself have established a home here with our two... Continue reading

  • Finally home after abuse

    by Otownprincess , almost 3 years ago
    I’m originally from Albert Lea. I fell in love and moved to the Cities to be with him. We had a son. Then the abuse started. My best friend has lived in Owatonna since 1997 (minus a year when he was recovering from a severe car accident. He’s the reason for the barriers just past Cabelas ! ). I contacted him, and he came to my rescue December 29th 2015. From that day , despite having to leave for a year, Owatonna became my home. I love it here. Now if I can just buy a house and get my... Continue reading