The keynote address came from Professor Tricia Rose of Brown University. The celebration was presented in partnership with TEAM Westport, Westport Country Playhouse, and the Westport/Weston Interfaith Council.
The Rev. Ed Horne of United Methodist Church of Westport and Weston, chairman of the Celebration’s organizing committee, gave the welcoming, with speeches from Harold Bailey and playhouse artistic director Mark Lamos.
That was followed by a gospel medley by the Men’s Community Gospel Choir of Norwalk.
"Gospel music is always something that speaks to my soul when I hear it," says Lauretta Jones. "The performance by the Men's Community Choir was outstanding. I felt moved by it."
A Spoken Word performance "A World that Listens," was presented by RCA students. A freedom song and another song titled "Lift Every Voice," was performed by Men’s Community Gospel Choir of Norwalk.
"I was really moved by today's performances, it was truly remarkable," says Susan Green.
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