VPT Online: Public Square: Race and Diversity in Vermont

PUBLIC SQUARE is a new initiative addressing issues of concern to Vermonters. Mixing documentary footage, thoughtful insight, in-depth panel discussions and more, we’ll keep you informed about local events and issues that affect your lives.

Race and Diversity in Vermont
Live with Viewer Call-in

Wed., Feb. 16, at 8 pm

Host Bridget Barry-Caswell

This program looks at race and diversity in Vermont with discussion, videotaped stories and viewer participation. Host of the live program is Bridget Barry Caswell. Joining her to talk about the issues will be panelists:

Robert Appel, executive director of the Vermont Human Rights Commission;
Jeff Benay, chair of the Native American Affairs Governor's Advisory Commission and director of Indian education for the Franklin County public schools;
Richard Johnson, faculty member of the University of Vermont College of Education and Social Services; and
Leshawn Sells, diversity/equity coordinator for the Burlington School District.

To spark discussion, there will be two pre-taped segments within the program. One looks at white parents Ann Borys and Billy Fink of Marshfield, who have adopted five children. Two are African-American and three are from India. Raising a trans-racial family in a part of Vermont where there are few people of color presents challenges, yet the parents have made sure the children know their cultural and ethnic heritages.

The other video segment looks at the first of a series of study circles on diversity forming in Montpelier. According to the organizers, efforts such as study circles are needed to provide a non-threatening, democratic forum to discuss the institutional and individual racism that people in central Vermont experience.

Viewers are invited to participate with comments and questions. A toll-free number will be announced during the program.

Be sure to tune in and find out more about this important issue.

Community Resources

Diversity Resource Guide
Resources for the state of Vermont. This guide lists organizations, a summary of the laws, commonly used terms, mediation and resolution services, trainers and legal service and enforcement agencies. Produced by LEAD (Leadership Education Action Diversity) International, Equality Vermont and the Vermont Human Rights Commission.
PATHWAYS: Evolution in American Indian Material Culture
Feb. 25, 2005 - Jan. 31, 2006
Fairbanks Museum, St. Johnsbury, VT
An exploration of the Museum's collection of American Indian objects, featuring local artists.

Return to PUBLIC SQUARE homepage