The West County towns we live in are, for the most part, welcoming to people of all races, religions, ethnic backgrounds, and lifestyles. Yet some of us have had reasons to feel unsafe at times because of prejudice and actions of a few of our neighbors. Threats and expressions of hatred against people of color and of non-majority religions and identities have been increasing in our country during the past few years and Franklin County has not been immune to this. We have seen racist symbols in our towns, and recently a local person threatened on social media to attack people of color.
We of the West County Kindness Project would like residents, guests, and people traveling through to know where they can safely ask for help, directions, and shelter. We have designed the sign below to put in front of our homes to announce our welcome to strangers in need and the community at large.
We have had 100 signs printed to distribute to those who would like to put one in front of your house. Go to our Facebook page, www.fb.me/WestCountyKindness, to learn more, or fill out a West County Kindness Project sign order form https://forms.gle/1xzzFNE5DKqLouXL6 The signs cost us $10 each. Contributions to cover our costs are welcome but not necessary. The money we collect will go to printing more signs and to support the Franklin County Peoples Fund (learn more at https://www.gofundme.com/f/fc-peoples-fund-covid19-mutual-aid-project).
Let us fill our lawns by the road with these signs, clearly showing that the people in your house welcome all and actively support people of color, women, and the environment that gives us life. Show that you support the rising tide of kindness, community, and inclusion.
We can overcome fear and hatred with love. We can be a community of kindness rooted in justice. Please join us.
The West County Kindness Project members are: Rhonda Anderson, Leslie Fraser, David Greenberg, Joe Kurland, Megan McDonough, Jonathan Rehmus, Rebecca Tippens and Nancy Turkle.