Race: Removing fences between Black and White communities

Community activist Beatrice “Bebe” Coker has been fighting for equal rights and high-quality public education for over 50 years. She continues to make an impact in Delaware today and is no stranger to protesting racial injustices.

“If we really want to help ourselves and help our children and have a more literate state, which leads to a greater economy, a more robust economy, we really need to get back to the business of learning opportunities and real education,” Coker said.

Coker’s concerns are among the various topics that will undoubtedly be discussed at “Race: Removing Fences between Black and White communities,” an interactive discussion taking place on May 16 at the Baby Grand at 818 N. Market Street.

According to Coker, the only way you’re going to connect with people is getting to know them.”I have made it a point to make sure that when I’m talking to somebody I start and understand where they are and go from there. Try hard not to be judgmental,” Coker said.

The town-hall style meeting is expected to cultivate an lively civic dialogue, and identify tangible opportunities to bring about racial and social justice.

“It’s way past time for uncomfortable conversations,” said Coker about the upcoming program on Tuesday, May 16.

The diverse panel discussion will feature:

• Tony Allen, Ph.D., Chairman, Wilmington Education Improvement Commission• Charlie Copeland, Former DE GOP Chairman, Businessman• Ashley Biden, MSW, Executive Dir., Delaware Center for Justice• Joe Madison, “The Black Eagle,” Talk Show Host, Sirius XM Urban View• Alicia Clark, Entrepreneur & Activist

Rev. Dr. Malcolm T. Byrd, the President of NewCORE will moderate the free event.

“I think we have assumed for too long that we all know each other, that we know how each other think, how each other want to live, what our passions are and goals are,” Coker said.

WHYY, the Christina Cultural Arts Center and the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League are hosting this event. 

People are urged to register online.