Reading Embraces Diversity Kickoff Event Scheduled

Reading Embraces Diversity (RED), a new community action group, will be holding their kickoff event on Tuesday, October 3, 2017 from 7:00-9:00PM at the Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School. The evening event, “A Night of Listening and Learning,” was planned in response to the recent hate symbols discovered in town. The evening will feature a presentation by Dr. Anna Ornstein, a child psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor; an update on the town, police, school and clergy responses to these incidents; and time for community questions from a panel of town leaders including the Town Manager, the Chief of Police and the Superintendent of Schools. The evening will also include music from the High School mixed choir and an opportunity to volunteer for future events and initiatives.

Jamie Michaels, Senior Pastor of the Old South United Methodist Church is the chair of this new group and is coordinating the team hosting this event. Speaking about the importance of the event, Pastor Michaels said,

“A town is only safe when all of its residents can feel safe from acts of hate. Reading Embraces Diversity encourages Reading citizens to continue their good work in building a community where we work together to understand our differences and build a safe and welcoming community for all our people.”

Reading Embraces Diversity (RED) was formed as a result of recent anti-Semitic and racist graffiti found in and around schools in Reading. The group’s mission is to promote communication and understanding across lines of difference so that Reading is a safe and supportive place to live for all our citizens.

For more information or questions about the event, please visit Facebook at facebook.com/ReadingEmbracesDiversity or email ReadingEmbracesDiversity@gmail.com. For interview requests, please contact Pastor Jamie Michaels of the Old South United Methodist Church at 781-944-2636 or pastor@oldsouthumc.org.