It all began when Lexy Zissu, mother of a New Paltz Middle School student, approached us with the idea. She and other parents and staff were disturbed by hateful incidents (swastika signs, the n-word) that have happened in New Paltz schools in recent months. They felt it was important for the students to see that the community was with them in denouncing hate and standing up for the rights of all students, especially those who were victims of bigotry and hate, or felt threatened by the incidents. Other schools and other marginalized and vulnerable members of our communities are also facing rising incidents of hate speech and hate crimes and they have been invited to have a voice on Saturday as well.

We really hope we will have a strong showing denouncing hate and celebrating our diversity, compassion and respect for all. There will be some amazing (but brief!) speakers and performances by the amazing TinHorn Uprising, the Resisterhood Choir and the Red Wing Blackbird Puppet Theater!

You can sign up here, Rise against Hate Rally and learn more about the event and our many great co-sponsors. The flier is also attached. We hope you can share it. If you can print it out and post that would be even better!