In an effort to raise awareness, reduce our biases, and support people of color in our community, VIEW invites Essex and Westford area folks to our first Racial Justice Community Film Showing on Wednesday, February 12 at 6 p.m. in the Essex High School Auditorium. VIEW will host a free community view of The Hate U Give, based on the award-winning book by Angie Thomas. It is also Vermont Humanities Vermont Reads 2020 book of the year.

The Hate U Give tells the story of Starr Carter, who lives in two worlds: the poor black neighborhood where she resides and the mostly white prep school she attends. Starr becomes witness to her childhood best friend being shot and killed by a white police officer during a traffic stop. The book and the movie offer space for reflection and understanding. This story, while fictional, showcases the types of biases, racism, and discrimination that black Vermonters face.

After the movie, an opportunity for respectful and meaningful discussion will be facilitated by Sue McCormack, Kesha Ram, and Daimeyon Williams.