To the Editor:

Not in Our Town is a Princeton-based interracial and interfaith social action group united to advance the cause of racial justice. We are supporting the YWCA Stand Against Racism Day this Friday, April 25, and encourage all of us to take our own stand against racism on that day and every day. From the highly disproportionate number of men of color who are incarcerated today to the seemingly innocent but nevertheless harmful comments that are made, racism still exists, and we all can do something about it.

• Get together with a neighbor or co-worker of a different race, ethnicity, or religion.

• Consider how your social or faith group can be more inclusive.

• Get involved in one of the many multi-cultural programs offered in the town.

• Be an active member of your child’s school parent association and add your voice to make sure all children are receiving the best the school has to offer.

Started by the Princeton and Trenton YWCAs in 2007, the national Stand Against Racism Day now has thousands of participants who share in a vision of eliminating racism and who celebrate the richness of diversity. The Princeton YWCA is holding a public event at Hinds Plaza and the Princeton Public Library, starting at 5:45 p.m., with a focus on racism and immigration.

We also encourage participation in our Continuing Conversations on Race, held the first Monday of the month, October-June, 7 p.m. at the Princeton Public Library, to further engage with others on issues of concern related to race and racism.

Our hope is that Princeton continues to grow as a place where the ideals of friendship, community, and pride in diversity prevail and where everyone is safe and respected. Join us in standing against racism today and every day.

Wilma Solomon, Larry and Fern Spruill, Ann Yasuhara, Barbara Fox, Nancy Strong, Joyce Turner, Marietta Taylor,

Linda Oppenheim, Ted Fetter,

Rev. Megan Thomas