Procedural concerns upend CATO quest to honor late NBA legend Bill Russell
December 7, 2023
The Daily Times Chronicle
Bob Holmes
The Select Board meeting in Reading addressed the ongoing efforts to honor Bill Russell, the basketball legend who faced racial abuse during his time in the town. CATO, Led by Philmore Phillip II, Tara Gregory, and Linda Snow Dockser, proposed the formation of the Bill Russell Ad-Hoc Commemoration Establishment Committee (BRACE) to explore ways of acknowledging and expressing accountability for the mistreatment Russell and his family endured. The proposed committee would consist of seven Reading residents and three associate members with diverse backgrounds. Some board members expressed concerns about the process, including the need to obtain consent from Russell’s family before incorporating his name into any programming. While appreciating the presentation, the Board discussed potential challenges, such as overburdening town staff and issues related to funding and committee structure.
Despite concerns, CATO members emphasized the importance of addressing racial injustice and honoring Russell’s legacy. They urged the Board to move beyond procedural questions and take tangible steps towards recognizing Russell’s contributions to civil rights. The meeting highlighted the broader goal of creating meaningful change and acknowledging the historical measurement of Russell and his family in Reading. Members of CATO called on the Board to uphold the commitments outlined in their August 2022 proclamation and move forward with planning an event to honor Russell. The discussion underscored the urgency of taking concrete actions to fulfill the town’s promises and confront its historical challenges with racism.
