FAMILIES ORGANIZING FOR RACIAL JUSTICE (FORJ)

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.

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY CEREMONIAL CELEBRATION RECAP

On October 10^th, Indigenous Peoples Day Newton hosted the second annual Indigenous Peoples Day Ceremonial Celebration in Albemarle Park.  With performing artist Annawon Weedon as emcee, participants enjoyed a full day of music, sharing, dancing, listening, and celebration.  Native American Tribes from the across the nation were present and participating in the day’s program, with people coming from as far as Florida and Washington State!  U.S. Veterans from the Narragansett tribe raised a flag throughout the day.  Tribal elders described remembrances, traditions, and policy work in progress.  Legislative bills described included establishing Indigenous Peoples Day across Massachusetts, protecting Native American heritage, removing Indigenous mascots in Massachusetts, and supporting education for Indigenous youth.  A market featuring more than 40 booths included handmade art, jewelry, musical instruments, baked goods, chocolate, clothing, children’s craft activities, wellness businesses and organizations like Karaya Wellness Center and CERT (emergency response groups), the League of Women Voters, FORJ, and conservation information.  And delicious food options abounded with fry bread, tamoles vendors and much more.

Indigenous Peoples Day 2022: Rainbow above the Ceremonial Fire

YOUR FORJ IDEAS WELCOME

Want to practice talking about some tough topics – Maybe read an article together or even have our kids take part in a FORJ Kids’ Book Club?  Let’s do that!  Lanni Isenberg, lanni_harris@yahoo.com, is FORJ Liaison to our PTO Board.  Any parent/guardian at Lincoln-Eliot may help plan or suggest activities for our FORJ efforts.  In prior years, L-E FORJ has provided resources, shared information on special events, hosted a 2^nd-5^th grade FORJ Kids’ Book Club, and hosted Lincoln-Eliot’s Juneteenth Celebration.