WILLIAMSBURG — The Virginia Racial Healing Institute announced a contribution from Sentara Health to support the 5th Annual Heal Williamsburg/Heal the Nation Community Day.
The Virginia Racial Healing Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the community. The event will be held on Sunday, Nov. 10 from 2-5 p.m. at Legacy Hall, 4301 New Town Ave., and is organized by Coming to the Table — Historic Triangle, a program of Virginia Racial Healing Institute and the local chapter of Coming to the Table, a national racial reconciliation organization.
“We are honored to have the support of Sentara Health for our annual ‘Community Day’ event. Their generous contribution reinforces their commitment to creating healthier communities through partnerships and philanthropy.” said Laura Hill, Executive Director of Virginia Racial Healing Institute.
The 5th Annual Heal Williamsburg/Heal the Nation Community Day, designed to foster “unity in the community,” will feature free food, spoken word poetry, arts and crafts and a community forum.
Led by Rev. Fred Liggin, the forum will discuss how diverse groups work together, historically and presently, to help heal and transform communities, the organization said.
LaCroix “Atlas” Nixon, founder of Slam Connection, a spoken word poetry-based organization in Williamsburg, will be sharing “How poetry can help us heal” and original spoken word poetry during the event. The nonprofit noted Nixon’s work is designed to inspire community action. Nixon is currently collaborating with the city of Williamsburg to install its first local poet laureate.
Panelists for the community forum include:
- Rev. Dr. Carlon Lassister; Senior Pastor of St. John Baptist Church
- Rabbi David Katz of Temple Beth El
- Kathryn Barko Alvo, Associate Professor, William and Mary
- Helen Casey Rutland, Member of Williamsburg’s Truth and Reconciliation Committee
“We are looking forward to bringing the Greater Williamsburg community together for a day of good food, good music and good vibes.” Hill said.
The event is free, but registration is required. Register at Eventbrite.
