Springfield plans reading event in lieu of CultureFest

Members of the Sikh dance group Punjabi Bhangra perform during CultureFest in 2017. A reading event centered around antiracism will take place this year instead due to the coronavirus pandemic. Bill Lackey/Staff

Members of the Sikh dance group Punjabi Bhangra perform during CultureFest in 2017. A reading event centered around antiracism will take place this year instead due to the coronavirus pandemic. Bill Lackey/Staff
News
By Hasan Karim
Sept 21, 2020
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Organizers of CultureFest are encouraging residents to read several books that cover antiracism in lieu of the annually scheduled event in downtown Springfield.

CultureFest was cancelled this year due to concerns for public safety amid the coronavirus pandemic. Its organizers are encouraging community members to read about and discuss antiracism instead.

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Those that wish to take part are asked to read one of the following books that deal with antiracism, which include:

• “How to be an Antiracist” by Ibram X Kendi

• “White Fragility” by Robin DiAngelo

• “Me and White Supremacy” by Layla Saad

Other organizations that wish to take part may select alternative books dealing with the subject matter, a news release from the City of Springfield stated.

Those who are interested in leading a reading group centered around one of those books are asked to visit Springfieldohio.gov/culturefest.

Limited copies of the books are available at the Clark County Public Library for checkout. Priority will be given at this time to those wishing to lead a reading group, the news release added.

In addition, the Clark County Public Library will be hosting a group discussion on the book “Me and White Supremacy” that will be led by Reference Librarian Steve Frock.

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The idea is for the book readings and the following discussions to take place between October and December.

Early next year, organizers are slated to convene those who participated for discussion and consideration of response.

For more information, contact the Springfield Community Development department at 937-324-7380 or Steve Frock at the Clark County Public Library at 937-328-6903.

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Hasan Karim, covers all things business in Clark and Champaign counties. Has been a reporter since 2017. His focus is primarily on job creation and covering the largest companies in the area. He also reports on the local healthcare industry as well as local government.