Rep. Katherine Clark, Religious Leaders, Talk About Embracing Diversity

MASSACHUSETTS — On December 3, 2016, Congresswoman Katherine Clark convened a panel discussion on embracing diversity and community based action steps for serving as strong allies in the face of intolerance with Eva Martin Blythe, Executive Director of the YWCA Cambridge, Reverend Irene Monroe, Dr. John Robbins, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Eva Millona, executive director of Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA), and Christian Miron, deputy director of NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts at Cambridge College.

Panelists encouraged attendees to go outside their comfort zones to learn more about other cultures or faith groups and to intervene to deescalate potentially threatening situations when safe to do, said the announcement. The audience was also encouraged to stay updated on local and federal legislation and remain active within community and advocacy organizations.

"I’m so grateful to everyone that joined our discussion on the steps we can take to be better allies,” said Clark in a statement. “As we move forward as a nation, the path we take starts with our communities. Their passion and commitment will help build the future that our children deserve.”

More than 100 people from across the 5th Congressional District attended the event. Attendees were urged to report threats or acts of violence immediately to local law enforcement and/or to the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office Hate Crimes Hot Line: 1 (800) 994-3228

Photo (submitted): Congresswoman Katherine Clark (MA-5) with Eva Martin Blythe, Executive Director of the YWCA Cambridge, Reverend Irene Monroe, Dr. John Robbins, Executive Director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Eva Millona, Executive Director of Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA), and Christian Miron, Deputy Director of NARAL Pro-Choice Massachusetts