Race Unity to celebrate 14th year

Organizers hope performers draw crowd to Sunday event

By TIFFANY ARNOLD
Staff reporter
06/06/2003

Organizers are hopeful that performers, two dozen cultural displays and free food will bring the Dover community together Sunday for its 14th annual Race Unity Day.

The event, a cultural diversity celebration, will be held at the Legislative Mall from 1 to 5 p.m.

"This is a way for people to learn about racism in a more social gathering," event organizer Maria Ruffin said.

Race Unity Day, held the second Sunday in June, was designated as a day to address racism by members of the Baha'i faith in 1957, Dean Dobbert, event spokesman, said. Dover held its first Race Unity Day in 1989.

The event was hosted by members of the Baha'i faith and The Dover Cultural Exchange.

"This year we're kind of making a quantum leap in getting some outside groups to perform," Dobbert said.

The Children's Theater Company, a group of New York performers, is the featured act. The performers, who range in age from 4 to 14, have danced for Nelson Mandela and have appeared on Sesame Street.

Local acts include the Sankofa Drummers and Dancers, Steppin' Seniors and country-gospel group Compassion.

About 150 people attended last year, but Dobbert said he expects attendance to be higher Sunday.

Reach Tiffany Arnold at 324-2280 or tarnold@delawareonline.com.

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