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Expert on Racism to Speak as part of Violins of Hope Reading

by The Jewish Federation of Reading

Oct 28, 2021

The Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks in partnership with World Affairs Council of Greater Reading announce a virtual event with Eric K. Ward, Executive Director, Western States Center. The public is invited to a Zoom webinar event with Ward entitled “Antisemitism, White Nationalism and Racism in the World Today” on Wednesday, November 3 at 12 p.m.

Eric K. Ward, a nationally-recognized expert on the relationship between authoritarian movements, hate violence, and preserving inclusive democracy, is the recipient of the 2021 Civil Courage Prize – the first American in the award’s 21-year history. In his 30+ year civil rights career, Eric has worked with community groups, government and business leaders, human rights advocates, and philanthropy as an organizer, director, program officer, consultant, and board member. Eric’s widely quoted writings and speeches are credited with key narrative shifts. He currently serves as Executive Director of Western States Center, Senior Fellow with Southern Poverty Law Center and Race Forward, and Co-Chair for The Proteus Fund.

Ward’s presentation is part of the series of programs from Violins of Hope Reading from November 1-14, 2021. Violins of Hope Reading is presented by the Reading Symphony Orchestra and the Jewish Federation of Reading.  The mission of Violins of Hope is to promote unity and understanding in our community, utilizing instruments that survived from the Holocaust.

“The Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks is proud to collaborate with the Reading Symphony Orchestra to bring to our community the special and unique Violins of Hope program. By including all segments of our community, we believe the many Violins of Hope programs can teach us how to work together to better understand and fight racism and social injustice.” —William D. Franklin, President, Jewish Federation of Reading

The event is free and open to the public however reservations are required. To reserve a spot please visit https://violinsofhopepa.org/events For a complete list of events with Violins of Hope Reading please visit www.violinsofhopapa.org

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