Police Chief Linda Pillo and author Warren Read are among those who will take part in a Jan. 12 forum designed to encourage community unity by increasing awareness and understanding of diverse cultures.
The free event, called “Community Building in our Diverse Community,” will take place from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Crossroads Community Center, 16000 NE 10th St. Reservations are requested by noon on Jan. 11. To RSVP and for more information, contact Kevin Henry at khenry@bellevuewa.gov or 425-452-7886.
The forum will explore the issues of harassment, hate crimes and graffiti; prevention and reporting options will be discussed as well. Also on tap, a facilitated discussion about how communities can build unity and increase cultural interaction.
Pillo will talk about what individuals can do if they feel they have been harassed because of their cultural, social or religious background. She will also discuss appropriate responses to graffiti.
Read will examine the social and economic causes of discrimination and share what communities can do to build unity and address conflict. Read is a popular keynote speaker and the author of the “The Lyncher In Me: A Search for Redemption in the Face of History.”
The forum is part of a series sponsored by Bellevue Parks & Community Services Cultural Diversity Program called “Conversations about Race & Culture.” The series aims to build community and increase cultural appreciation and understanding in Bellevue.
