METCO Alumni Panel will Highlight 2nd MLK Unity Breakfast on January 15

Submitted by Bedford Embraces Diversity

Looking forward to a great event! Courtesy image (c) Bedford Embraces Diversity, 2017 all rights reserved – Click to view larger image

A panel of Bedford High School METCO alumni will reflect on their involvement with the program and how it prepared them, highlighting Bedford Embraces Diversity’s second annual Martin Luther King Jr. unity breakfast.

The public event will be held on Monday, January 15, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the First Church of Christ, Congregational, 25 The Great Road. Last year’s breakfast sold out, so reservations are required, by writing [email protected] or calling 781-983-1763.

Besides the speakers, a prominent vocalist in the Gospel tradition will perform. Jerome Kyles, assistant professor of voice at Berklee College of Music, is also minister of worship and music at Morning Star Baptist Church, Mattapan. His background includes classical opera, jazz, and musical theater, as well as inspirational and gospel music.

“We want the day to bring hope and pride for all of the positive things that have and can be accomplished when people of different color work together toward common goals that are positive and rewarding,” said Marilou Barsam, president of Bedford Embraces Diversity. “We believe that the METCO program in general, and specifically here in Bedford, is a good example of that.”

“Our grass-roots organization is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion both here in Bedford and in the world at large. We believe the success our speakers have achieved during and after METCO is a great way to illustrate these values,” she said.

Akil Mondesir, a 1997 BHS graduate and current Bedford METCO coordinator, will introduce the participants. After the remarks, the audience at the tables will have an opportunity to discuss the information shared and issues raised.

Among the community leaders who plan to attend are State Rep. Ken Gordon, Police Chief Robert Bongiorno, Fire Chief David Grunes, members of the selectmen, School Committee and other town officials, and Col. Roman Hund, commander of the 66^th Air Base Group at Hanscom Air Force Base. A delegation from Middlesex Community College will be led by President James Mabry and include Reginald Nichols, assistant director of human resources and affirmative action officer.

A continental breakfast will be available. Suggested donation is $5.