Public Forum In Montclair Will Explore ‘Systemic Discrimination’

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A public forum in Montclair will explore the impacts of “systemic discrimination” in Essex County, which continues to impact housing, health care, education and other basic needs in the area, advocates say.

The Jersey Bee, the Montclair History Center and Friends of Howe House will host the event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 17 at the Montclair Public Library, 50 South Fullerton Avenue. Space is limited; learn more or register for a free ticket here.

According to an event posting from organizers:

“Join The Jersey Bee, Montclair History Center, and Friends of Howe House at the Montclair Public Library for a conversation about something that shapes daily life in Essex County: segregation. New Jersey was known as the ‘slave state of the North’ for its role in maintaining the institution. The Klu Klux Klan marched through nearby streets before the federal government began redlining Black communities in the 1930s – deeming them investment risks. But nearly 40 years after the passage of the Civil Rights and Fair Housing acts, Essex County is still one of the most segregated areas in the United States. Join us on Oct. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Montclair Public Library to learn about segregation in New Jersey and the movements working toward reparation. You’ll learn how systemic discrimination impacts housing, health care, education, and other basic needs and connect with your neighbors to share your experiences and guide The Jersey Bee’s reporting.”

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Montclair Facebook page.