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Don't be surprised if you see many orange ribbons around town next month. It's part of the YWCA Darien/Norwalk's participation in Stand Against Racism, a national initiative designed to spread awareness about racism and it existence in our communities.
"We're thrilled that so many local organizations, corporations, schools, government agencies and individuals in Darien and Norwalk have agreed to participate," said Nancy Coughlin, interim executive director at the YWCA.
The movement will culminate as First Selectman Dave Campbell reads a Pledge Against Racism at Town Hall on April 29. The YWCA will also distribute orange ribbons to people in town, which they can tie around a tree, a mailbox or front door to show support for diversity and understanding.
Last year, more than 2,000 organizations in 32 states took part in the movement, with more than 250,000 people taking a stand against racism. This year, more than 70 YWCA organizations will take part across the country, and 300,000 people or more are expected to participate.
Many organizations in town are taking part, some of which will be hosting events. Groups such as the Darien Chamber of Commerce, the Darien Library, A Better Chance in Darien, the Depot, Family Centers, Parent Awareness and the Darien Public Schools are all standing by the YWCA to show that racism will not be ignored.
Any group in town can participate by going to the Stand Against Racism website or by contacting the YWCA. The YWCA will provide groups with materials on how to run an event. Past events run by organizations have included movie screenings, book discussions, activities to educate children and larger scale activities such as marches and rallies.
"We invite any group of any size that believes in a society free of racism to join us," Coughlin said.
Do you think that racism is a continuing problem that needs to be addressed? Start a conversation on this important matter in the comments below, on Facebook and on Twitter.
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