OneWinthrop Seeks Just That, Unity and Respect

OneWinthrop is meant to promote diversity, unity and respect in the community, and tonight, it will present a forum at the forefront of civic discussions, the Deferred Action from Childhood Arrivals (DACA) with special guest speaker and Winthrop resident Hanna Gerhard, who will share the story of her move to the United States.

Tonight’s forum, Feb. 22, will be held at 6 p.m. in the Winthrop Public Library.

Stephanie Recchia and Julia Wallerce, who are active in One Winthrop, said they are looking for people’s stories and hope they join in sharing them.

“This is not a reaction but a proactive approach to make sure we don’t condone (exclusion),” said Recchia. “We want to be a welcoming community.”

She noted that after the election of Donald Trump, OneWinthrop went in to action organizing a peaceful gathering at Ingleside Park.

“So many people came. We have to stand against negative sentiment,” Wallerce said.

She explained how OneWinthrop has partnered with the library for suggested readings and book club. OneWinthrop would also like to partner with the schools. Wallerce noted the International Night held at the Cummings School and the I Love Winthrop festival were great examples of bringing the community together and sharing differences.

Recchia said OneWinthrop is now focusing on town government. There currently is no Human Rights Commission like found in some communities. She added that they have been in discussions with Councilor Mike Lucerto and Town Council President Ron Vecchia. If a commission is appointed, they would like to see members including an attorney, clergy, people of color, someone from the schools, and representatives from local government.

“We’d like to remove the barriers. We want an inclusive community,” Recchia said. “We want everyone to be celebrated.”

For more information about OneWinthrop, check out its page on Facebook, send email to onewinthrop@gmail.com or go to groups.google.com/d/forum/one-winthrop.