Community Dialogue on Racial Discrimination - Feb. 24, 2016

Is racial discrimination common in the Bennington area? What is the experience of local people of color? The Diversity Committee of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Bennington will sponsor A Community Dialogue on Racial Discrimination on Wednesday Feb. 24, 2016. The event will provide a safe and respectful forum where people can share personal experiences of discrimination and successful actions to promote racial justice. The intent is to create a dialogue that is educational, honest, and personal, focusing not only on negative incidents, but also on courageous leadership to dismantle racism. The evening will begin with introductory remarks from Curtiss Reed, executive director of Vermont Partnership for Fairness & Diversity. The VT Partnership’s stated mission is to: work to strengthen inclusive and equitable practices as a means to eliminate prejudice and discrimination of all kinds. Discussion will be moderated by Susan Sgorbati, director of the Center for the Advancement of Public Action at Bennington College. Several community members will present brief personal stories followed by time for additional sharing by the audience. This event will be held at the UU Meetinghouse at 108 School St, Bennington from 6:30 to 8 pm, followed by refreshments. Community members are invited to join us to listen, learn, and share with their neighbors in respectful dialogue.