In honor of Juneteenth, we invite you to share conversation about the challenges of communicating with clarity during a time of great change. Together in community, we’ll find a path to compassionately converse about anti-racism, cancel culture, and shifting societal landscapes - using mindful communication principles advocated by global peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh, Insight Dialogue creator Gregory Kramer and law professor Rhonda V. Magee, author of The Inner Work of Racial Justice.

As we return to life after Covid with new awareness, may we gather with intention and kindness as we find a way to feel heard while mindfully listening to the experiences of others.

This mindful conversation will be led by Be Well Be Here founder, Lara Wilson, MA, GMCS

No registration required - just show up with empathy and an open mind. We’ll meet on Concord Free Public Library Lawn. Feel free to bring your own chair, blanket or mat to Be comfortable!

The Robbins House Vigil presents

On our own, Together in spirit

Friday, June 19, 2020 • 12:00-12:08:46 p.m

We introduced our family-friendly Juneteenth event at the Robbins House two years ago. This year, due to COVID we're planning an 8 minutes and 46 second vigil in honor of Juneteenth. Although we’ll be apart physically, we’ll be together in spirit as we breathe deeply, kneel if we can, make space for our emotions and reflections, and make a commitment to at least one sustained anti-racism action. You can find suggested anti-racism action items here.
Recommended family reading: Juneteenth for Mazie by award-winning author and illustrator Floyd Cooper

What is Juneteenth?

One year before Ellen Garrison’s dismissed attempt to legally test the nation's first Civil Rights Act in 1866, the last enslaved community was notified that the Civil War was over and slavery had ended. That community was in Galveston, Texas, and the announcement put into effect the Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, originally intended to free enslaved people in rebellious southern states. The 13th Amendment to the Constitution abolishing slavery throughout the United States was ratified December 6th, 1865.
 

The commemorative day is a stark reminder of America's persistent resistance to equity, and resistance to treating each individual with equal rights and dignity, 155 years later. Learn more about Juneteenth here and here.