‘Standing Together’ rally celebrates diversity

Mike Morsch, Regional Editor
Judith Arnold believes that Central New Jersey offers a rich mixture of ethnicities, religions, interests, talents, and strengths – the very foundation on which the country was built., So Arnold and Deborah Macmillan, both members of The League of Women Voters of East Windsor-Hightstown, decided to conduct a meeting of a variety of community groups to consider hold a rally to celebrate diversity., The result was a “Standing Together” Rally to Celebrate Diversity, spearheaded by the League of Women Voters of East Windsor-Hightstown, drew individuals from various backgrounds May 7 to Montgomery County Community College., “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., Macmillan emphasized that many Americans today – citizens and other residents – need to know that many people stand together in support of one another., This event featured several speakers at the beginning and end of the rally representing a variety of racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds., The “Standing Together” event also included a 1.2k (3/4 mile) walk through the campus.  Participants were encouraged to create and carry signs with positive messages and images celebrating diversity.  Three of the most imaginative and/or inspirational signs were awarded a gift card prize., According to the League of Women Voter organizers, the rally was intended to affirm the value of diversity to society and defend that importance., “It was 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 looked at  ‘Standing Together’ as a true celebration of diversity in its many facets,” said Macmillan.  “At a time when many live in fear, and hate crimes are on the rise, it seemed particularly fitting for people across all backgrounds to rally and connect by standing – and walking – together.”, For more information on “Standing Together,” send an email to StandingTogether2017@gmail.com.