Walk to overcome racism slated for March 21

A community event, “Bii-mos-e-taa, Walking Together to Overcome Racism” will be held in Fort Frances on Friday, March 21.
The walk will begin at 2 p.m. at the United Native Friendship Centre, located at 516 Portage Ave., and will circle the downtown area.
Afterwards, a celebration and feast will be held at the Nanicost building at 4 p.m.
March 21 is designated by the United Nations as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
March 21 also is Good Friday this year, not to mention the first day of spring—a time of hope and renewal.
“By walking together, we want to demonstrate commitment to fostering respect, equality, and diversity in all our relationships,” said Lisa Jackson, a member of the local Right Relations Circle.
The focus is on building a meaningful partnership between aboriginal and non-aboriginal people. Special black, red, yellow, and white ribbons to symbolize that commitment will be available for participants to wear at the walk.
“Everyone is welcome,” said Gilbert Smith, an organizer of the walk and board member of the United Native Friendship Centre. “This will be an exciting, empowering, and enjoyable event.”
The walk and celebration were initiated by the UNFC and the Right Relations Circle, whose purpose is to promote justice and reconciliation between aboriginal and non-aboriginal people through examining our history and ourselves, and then taking action.