Anti-racism program at school canceled
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TIMES ARGUS STAFF - Published: June 12, 2009
BURLINGTON (AP) — A Roman Catholic grade school is caught up in debate over its cancellation last month of a program designed to teach children how to work against racism.
In a letter to parents, Mater Christi School officials said the Reading to End Racism Program was cancelled because of its affiliation with a group whose leader is an outspoken advocate for abortion rights and for gay marriage.
A substitute event, "Diversity and Awareness Day," is scheduled to take place at the school this Friday.
Dan Balon, director of diversity and equality for Burlington's public schools and the father of a Mater Christi student, calls the Reading to End Racism Program valuable and says he wishes the Catholic school had offered it.
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