Local Police Officers to be featured as guest readers and speakers
In the wake of the Ferguson and Eric Garner events, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute’s (BCRI) Community of Readers program for December will feature book readings and dialogue about peaceful protest and human rights. Officer Eric Myers, Officer Denise Bone and Officer Demarius Jackson of the Birmingham Police Department will be guest readers. The program will be held on Friday, December 12, at 6 p.m. in BCRI’s rotunda.
“This month’s theme is how to peacefully resolve issues,” stated Yvette Chatman, Community of Readers Coordinator, “and the books we are featuring reflect that.” The books featured for the program include “Wangari’s Trees of Peace” by Jeanette Winter, ”a true story of Wangari Maathai, environmentalist and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, and “Abby Takes a Stand,” by Patricia McKissack, which helps young readers understand that freedom is about having choices. Both books, which demonstrate how ordinary people can inspire change through extraordinary courage, will be distributed free to local families at the event. After the readings, families will have the opportunity to speak to police officers. Refreshments will also be served. Although the program is free, reservations are encouraged at 328-9696 x 246 or x 249.
