The following press release has been received from Patrick Murfin:
Planning Under Way for Diversity Day 2009
Woodstock–Planning is under way for Diversity Day 2009. The 13th installment of the annual festival will be held on Sunday, September 27 from 1 to 4 PM on the Square in Woodstock.
The theme this year is “We’re in This Together.”
“Tough economic times have taken a devastating toll on our community and nation while the world remains in turmoil,” festival Executive Director Patrick Murfin explained. “Sometimes fear and anxiety cause groups to turn on each other and bigots seek to exploit those fears. But in times like these we need each other more than ever. Our festival is meant to rally the whole community regardless of race, religion, national origin, language, gender, sexual orientation, age or ability in mutual respect and celebration.”
The festival is seeking multi-cultural entertainment for the program including musicians, dancers, and folk artists.
“We are also looking for children’s programming and activities both on the stage and around the Square,” Murfin said.
Speakers will be invited from organizations to highlight their efforts at serving and improving the community cooperatively. Non-profit organizations, social service agencies, government agencies, issue advocacy organizations, religious groups, political parties and others in sympathy with the aims and purposes of the festival may also set up information tables on the Square free of charge.
Nominations for the Peace and Justice Award, presented annually at the festival, will be welcomed through the month of June. The Award is presented to an individual or individuals who have advanced the causes of justice, equity and compassion in our community and the world. “We are especially proud of this award which is meant to not only honor deserving individuals, but highlight their work.
Sponsorship opportunities for the festival are also available, as are sustaining advertisements in the annual program book.
Diversity Day 2009: We’re in This Together! is organized by the Congregational Unitarian Church.
For more information about and opportunities to volunteer, support or participate in it, visit the Diversity Day Blog, contact Murfin at 815 814-5645 or e-mail divday@sbcglobal.net, write Diversity Day c/o Congregational Unitarian Church, 221 Dean Street, Woodstock 60039.
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You see the Latino Unidos Dancers from McHenry County College, plus Gloria Urch and Patrick Murfin, co-hosts last year.