Multicultural Recognized for 20 Years of Service

Two decades ago, long-time Winchester resident, Sandy Thompson, began the (WMCN). And for the past 20 years, the organization has been working on multicultural issues within Winchester.

On Monday night, the recognized the non-profit organization for its years of service to the town.

“It’s astounding to me that the Multicultural Network has been around for 20 years,” said chair of the Board of Selectmen, Thomas Howley. “Some of the most difficult moments in the community, the Multicultural Network turned them into opportunities. They provide a wonderful service in the town.”

The mission of the organization is to promote the recognition, understanding and appreciation of diversity; advocate for a person’s civil rights; and to confront intolerance.

In order to serve the community, Multicultural offers workshops to the community; sponsors forums, screenings, exhibits, panel discussions; offers social events and activities for international residents; and responds to incidents of bias and discrimination.

The next Multicultural event will be held this Sunday, March 6, when the Jubilee Trio will be performing at the at 3 p.m.

Multicultural will also be holding a at the First Congregational Church on Friday, March 11 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and continuing on Saturday, March 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

“In September 2009, the Board of Selectmen passed the Winchester Human Rights Statement,” said one of the workshop coordinators, Gloria Legvold. “Workshop participation allows another step forward in building Winchester’s reputation and reality as a welcoming and inclusive community. Participants are making an investment in keeping our schools, institutions, businesses, and neighborhoods alive through the richness of our differences, perspectives, experiences and talents.”

And on Monday night, members of the organization showed up in support as the town honored two decades of work from the Multicultural Network.

“We’re deeply appreciative of this recognition,” Thompson said. “It means a lot to be recognized by the town.”