Past Events

The Reading Remembrance Tour, inaugurated June 2021, represents a commendable initiative to foster a deeper connection between community members to Reading’s rich colonial past. By delving into historical narratives, particularly those concerning Black and enslaved individuals, the tour serves as a meaningful platform to illuminate the diverse and often overlooked stories that have shaped the community.

During these tours, participants are provided with background information about Black and enslaved persons who once lived in Reading. The experience goes beyond mere historical recollection; it actively engages participants by encouraging them to ask questions and draw connections between the town’s past and its present. This interactive approach not only educates but also sparks a dialogue that bridges the gap between history and contemporary experiences.

The Reading Remembrance Tour stands as a testament to the importance of acknowledging the full spectrum of the town’s history, including stories of those who have been historically marginalized. By facilitating these connections, the tour aims to create a more inclusive understanding of Reading’s heritage, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for preserving and honoring the diverse narratives woven into the fabric of the community.

CATO screened the first part of the Bill Russell Netflix documentary at the Reading Public Library that shed a light on the historical experiences of one of the greatest basketball players of all time and his encounters with discrimination while residing in Reading. The subsequent in-depth conversation involving 70 community members reflects a commitment to open dialogue and understanding. Addressing the treatment Bill Russell faced, discussing the town’s reactions, and exploring ways to honor his legacy are crucial steps towards fostering awareness, reconciliation, and positive change within the community.

The valuable insights gathered from this conversation contributed significantly to CATO’s report and presentation to the Reading Select Board on December 5, 2023. CATO aims to use this information to advocate for meaningful actions, policies, and community initiatives that not only acknowledge the historical challenges faced by Bill Russell, but also work toward creating a more inclusive and equitable community for all residents.

This initiative exemplifies the power of community engagement, education, and advocacy in addressing historical injustices and striving towards a future characterized by respect, understanding, and unity. CATO’s dedication to amplifying voices, fostering dialogue, and driving positive change is a testament to the organization’s commitment to social justice and creating a community that values and honors the experiences of all its members.

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual observance on June 19th that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The date marks the moment when the news of emancipation reached the last remaining enslaved individuals in the Confederate states.

Juneteenth is celebrated as a day of reflection, education, and community. It holds historical and cultural significance, serving as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in their quest for freedom and equality. In more recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognize Juneteenth as a national holiday, symbolizing the importance of acknowledging and understanding the history of slavery and the ongoing pursuit of racial justice.

CATO - The Coalition of Us continues to lead impactful initatives in Reading, including a second community conversation held at the Reading Public Library. This event featured a panel of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQ+ community leaders who shared their personal experiences of living and working in Reading. Panelists openly discussed moments when they felt unwelcome or uncomfortable, offered insgihts on how such situations could have ben better managed, and articulated their vision for a welcoming community. Their collective vision aligns with the inclusive and just community that Bill Russell himself envisioned.

The insights and recommendations gathered from this event were instrumental in guiding the Reading Select Board's actions to honor Bill Russell per their August 9, 2022 resolution. On June 18, 2024, the Select Board voted unanimously (5-0) to establish an ad hoc comittee dedicated to honoring Bill Russell's legacy as both a basketball legend and a civil rights icon.

This newly formed committee will focus on ensuring that Bill Russell's contributions and the challenges he faced are properly acknowledged and honored. It will also work towards creating a community environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion, striving to realize the vision of unity and respect for which Russell stood.

CATO's continued efforts, including this community conversations, are vital steps toward fostering a more inclusive and understanding community in Reading. By amplifying voices of marginalized groups and driving actionable change, CATO is helping to build a community that honors its diverse history and works actively towards an quitable future for all its residents.