LTE: The Coalition of Us (CATO) Supports Director for Equity and Social Justice
April 1, 2021
The Reading Post
Letters to the Editor Members of CATO - The Coalition of Us
Members of CATO - The Coalition of Us penned a Letter to the Editor expressing strong support for the establishment of a paid Director for Equity and Social Justice within a new division of the Reading Public Library. The Ad-Hoc Select Board committee, which included various town stakeholders, recommended this structure, and CATO believes the professional director is crucial for creating and sustaining an effective human rights organization in the town. The Director’s responsibilities include addressing needs proactively, managing challenges related to bias and marginalization, and extending the library’s mission of inclusion and social justice across all town departments, businesses, and residents. CATO emphasizes the importance of this investment in fostering a more welcoming, inclusive, and respectful community, citing recent incidents of violence and discrimination as evidence of the need for proactive measures.
CATO contends that having a Director of Equity and Social justice will not only enhance the town’s quality of life but also save money by addressing issues locally in a caring and professional manner before they escalate. The group urges residents to support the Library budget, including funding for the paid Director, and emphasize the continuous effort required from individuals and the community to become antiracist and ensure social justice for all. The message was signed by various CATO members, including President Philmore Phillip II, Jennifer Blackmon, Colm Eliet, Sherilla Lestrade, Steve Peacock, Anne Schwartz, Allison Sillers, and Linda Snow Dockser.
