9-17-15 fdl humanity project

A group of Fond du Lac residents  is launching a program to address concerns  surrounding race in the community.   The first meeting of the Humanity Project was held Wednesday night at the Marian University Stayer Center.  County board supervisor, educator and long-time human rights activist Judy Goldsmith says the program will use informational videos and discussions about race.  Goldsmith says participants will be able to engage in a monthly activity with a person of another race such as shopping, going for a walk or just having a cup of coffee together.  “We have to do this because we have children and children need to grow up with all of the unlimited possibilities that we all enjoy,”  Goldsmith told WFDL news.   Goldsmith says race tensions in Fond du Lac compromise everyone’s quality of life.  “In our community I would say generally speaking a lot of people of color do not feel welcome.  They may encounter cold or even dirty looks walking into restaurants or in stores.  They may have difficulty finding places to live or to rent or to be employed,”  Goldsmith said.    “But none of this is about guilt.  All of this is about coming to understand each other better.”   Experienced facilitators will lead participants through discussions and activities every two to three months throughout the year.