Projects
Reading Remembrance Tour
The Reading Remembrance Tour is a biannual event held in downtown Reading a unique exploration of various historical spots that hold significance to the community. This immersive experience provides participants with the opportunity to connect with the town’s diverse and compelling history, particularly shedding light on the stories of Black and enslaved individuals.
For those unable to attend the physical tour, an online version has been thoughtfully curated, allowing residents and community members to take the tour at any time. This virtual platform extends accessibility, enabling individuals to engage with Reading's history from the comfort of their own spaces. The online tour serves as an inclusive resource that promotes continuous learning and a deeper understanding of the town's heritage.
Whether experienced in person or virtually, the Reading Remembrance Tour stands as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving and sharing its history. Through these initiatives, Reading continues to build connections, promote understanding, and celebrate the diversity of its residents, contributing to the ongoing narrative of a community united by its past and present.
Bill Russell Projects
The efforts of The Coalition of Us (CATO) in working on various projects related to Bill Russell are both commendable and crucial for fostering awareness, understanding, and positive change within the community of Reading. By screening the Netflix documentary, CATO is providing a platform to showcase the experiences of a prominent figure and, in doing so, bringing attention to the historical realities of racial mistreatment that Bill Russell and his family faced while living in Reading.
Conversations facilitated by CATO around these projects create spaces for community members to engage in meaningful dialogue. Discussing the mistreatment faced by Bill Russell and his family is an important step toward acknowledging historical injustices and working collectively towards a more inclusive and respectful community.
Moreover, CATO's commitment to ensuring that the town properly honors Bill Russell's legacy reflects a broader dedication to recognizing the impact of historical discrimination and striving for a more equitable future. By actively engaging with these projects, CATO is contributing to a narrative that values transparency, education, and progress.
In essence, the work that CATO is undertaking not only sheds light on the mistreatment faced by a prominent resident but also serves as a catalyst for broader conversations about racial equity, justice, and community healing. By addressing these issues head-on, CATO is playing a vital role in shaping a community that learns from its history and actively works toward creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for all.
