WILLIAMSBURG-Williamsburg will join communities across the country in observing the annual National Day of Racial Healing from 5:30pm to 7pm Tuesday, January 17, at Corey’s Southern Catering and Venue Rentals located at 5351 Richmond Rd.
The celebration is being organized by Coming to the Table-Historic Triangle, a program of the Virginia Racial Healing Institute. This year’s event is sponsored by Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center and Sentara CarePlex.
“Sentara is committed to promoting wellness and health equity, and we are honored to ‘come to the table’ to partner in the intentional work needed to achieve our shared goal of building stronger, healthier communities for all,” said Amber Price, president of Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center.
During the ceremony, Coming to the Table will present its first-ever Table Builders Award to four local organizations that are working to correct historical narratives, foster truth-telling, and implement community collaborations. The awards will be presented to a business, a nonprofit organization, a government agency, and a faith-based organization.
“Something beautiful has been birthed at the ‘Birthplace of America,’” said Laura Hill, founder and director of Coming to the Table-Historic Triangle. “People are opening their hearts and minds to listening and learning from one another. We hope that coming together during the National Day of Racial Healing leads to greater trust and relationship building.”
The evening will feature storytelling, food, music, and a candlelight service. Participants will receive a complimentary copy of “The Little Book of Racial Healing” by national Coming to the Table co-managers Tom DeWolf and Jody Geddes.
“We are grateful to our community partners, Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center and Sentara CarePlex,” Hill said. “Their sponsorship enables us to offer this free community event.”
Due to popular interest, the event has sold out. However, there’s a waiting list for people who are interested in obtaining tickets that may become available due to a cancellation. To be put on the waiting list, send an email to CTTT.Historictriangle@gmail.com.