If you’re looking for chance to learn more about other cultures from around the globe in an entertaining, family friendly setting, look no farther than Conyers.
The first ever Unity Rally for Cultural Awareness and Racial Harmony will be held at the Georgia International Horse Park’s Exhibition Center on April 30, from noon – 10 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public and will feature performances from musicians, artists, poets, and dancers as well as vendors and booths with information about various cultures. Other activities for children include pony rides, face painting, a rock climbing wall, and an obstacle course.
Organizer Deborah Anderson said the idea came to her during a conversation with her husband about a year ago on doing something to bring different races together.
Inspired by a quote from Mother Theresa, she decided to organize a rally that would be for something instead of against something.
“It’s my hope people will come with an open mind,” said Anderson. “Come prepared to have fun while getting to know other people.”
“We’re all human beings,” she said. “I have O-negative blood. If you were O-negative and needed a pint of my blood, I would give it to you.”
The rally is not about politics, Anderson said. “I want it to be something that’s neutral. Something that crosses racial lines. It’s purely about nationalities coming together for peace, harmony and understanding.”
Although this is her latest project, the topic has been a passion for some time.
She started a book on racial issues and mental slavery in 2000 but had set it aside for her work in the entertainment industry on film and television projects. “I thought, ‘That’s too much work. Trying to deal with people and racial issues? Oh no.’” said Anderson. But after a health crisis in 2002, she returned to the book and returned to teaching. She also began speaking to groups across the country and internationally in countries such as Anguilla.
“If we could ever wake up and come together, the world would be a far better place than fighting over skin color,” she said.
Groups interested in having a booth with information about their nationality, ethnicity or group can contact Anderson at 770-648-8023.
