Engaging the community in a dialogue on race and racism

The past five years have seen such troublesome situations as increasing youth gang activity, vocal opposition with undertones of intolerance to a low-income housing development, and an emotionally charged incident during which an African American man died while in police custody Data also indicate that disparities based on race exist in home ownership, medical care, educational achievement, wealth, and the criminal justice system within our community. Here are a few examples of support: * Greater Lynchburg Transit Company (GLTC) provided bus transportation as needed for participants in the communitywide study circles. * Centra Health, the region's largest employer, donated $10,000 and provided information to its workforce as well as opportunities to participate. * The Central Virginia Community Services Board (CVCSB) provided time during the workday for employees willing to be facilitators. * The Martin Luther King, Jr., Lynchburg Community Council (MLKLCC) acted as the project's 501(c)(3) partner for accepting tax-deductible donations. * The Boys and Girls Club of Central Virginia provided a meeting site for a pilot study circle. * Lynchburg College hosted the two-day training for facilitators; this included all meals and facilities. * The Chamber of Commerce endorsed the project and in all chamber newsletters included information about the project and how to register.