Marathon Monday’s Story of Heartbreak Hill
When the 2021 Boston Marathon, due to the COVID pandemic, reset to take place on the same date as the first Newton-wide observation of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, for many, it brought to light a different telling of the story of how “Heartbreak Hill” came to be named. As the 2022 Boston Marathon runs this week, have a look at the historic event and the legacy of Ellison “Tarzan” Brown’s legendary victory in 1936 (and he also won in 1939). Also, read about featured runners in the 2022 marathon: https://nativenewsonline.net/currents/boston-strong-through-native-roots
Newton Public Schools and the Boston Marathon route are all on Indigenous homelands, specifically on the land of the Nipmuc and Massachusett.
Sending safe, well wishes to this year’s runners and your chance to build community in motion. Good weather and good speed to you all!
Citywide FORJ Meeting: “In Search of Belonging: A Discussion with Palestinian-American-Newtonians” on Tuesday, May 10th at 7PM
This event will offer attendees a valuable opportunity to meet and learn from members of the Newton community who are often invisible or misunderstood.
In a constructive and safe environment, you will hear Palestinian-American-Newtonians talk about their experiences in Newton, which are varied and complex, and hear their responses to questions raised by the audience. You will leave with ideas about how you can support your Palestinian-American neighbors and how to learn more about their culture, history and perspectives.
This event is being planned by Newton community members, including Palestinians, in response to recent events in Newton schools that we believe undermine our commitment to anti-racism and inclusion. Please join FORJ as we continue to take steps to address challenges to the dignity and rights of all our community members.
LEARNING IS EVERYDAY – Read, Watch, Listen, Talk
If you are looking for some inspirational, thought-provoking readings/listening during break to consider and advance racial equity & belonging, check out readings, videos, podcasts and connections available from Newton FORJ – https://www.forj.org/resources.
FAMILIES ORGANIZING FOR RACIAL JUSTICE (FORJ) is a group of diverse Newton families helping our children learn about issues of power and inequality and how to stand up for racial justice. We seek to generate understanding and curiosity about differences in our society, and to work together towards racial equity.
For more information about FORJ, contact Lincoln-Eliot FORJ PTO Liaison Lanni Isenberg, lanni_harris@yahoo.com.