‘Standing Together’ rally to celebrate diversity

Judith Arnold believed that Central New Jersey offered a rich mixture of ethnicities, religions, interests and strengths. That’s why she spearheaded an effort to bring a variety of community groups together to explore the possibility of having a rally to celebrate diversity., “Now is a time when we should celebrate and show support for our values and those who work today to fulfill the American dream and to help others do so,” said Arnold, a member of The League of Women Voters of East Windsor-Hightstown., Arnold was joined by another LWV member, Deborah Macmillan, who emphasized that, “Many Americans today – citizens and other residents – need to know that we stand together in support of one another.”, With that introduction, “Standing Together” plans were launched., The “Standing Together” Rally will be held on Sunday afternoon, May 7, at Mercer County Community College, West Windsor Campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road. The rain or shine event will begin at 1:30 p.m. and conclude no later than 4:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome, admission is free, and there is ample parking., The event will feature several speakers at the beginning and end of the rally representing a variety of racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. Among those who have been invited to participate is U.S. Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman., “Standing Together” will also include a 1.2k (3/4 mile) walk through the campus on a flat, smooth walkway (wheelchair accessible). Participants are encouraged to create and carry signs with positive messages and images celebrating diversity. Three of the most imaginative and/or inspirational signs will each be awarded a gift card prize., According to the League of Women Voter organizers, the rally is intended to affirm the value of diversity to society and defend that importance., “’Standing Together’ will be a time for neighbors and friends, new and old, to illustrate the meaning of the saying ‘The whole is greater than the sum of the parts,’” said Arnold., Macmillan agrees saying, “We look forward to ‘Standing Together’ as a true celebration of diversity in its many facets. At a time when many live in fear, and hate crimes are on the rise, it seems particularly fitting for people across all backgrounds to rally and connect by standing – and walking – together.”, While admission and participation in the rally is free, donations are welcomed to help defray event costs. To make an online donation, please visit the GoFundMe website, look for “Standing Together 4 Diversity,” and follow the prompts. There will also be opportunities to contribute at the event site as well., For more information on “Standing Together,” send an email to StandingTogether2017@gmail.com.