L.O.V.E. Is The Answer [Celebration Day Welcome] - 9/17/2022

Good afternoon everyone, my name is Dina Johnson, CEO/President of the Monroe County Family Coalition. We welcome you to the first upstate L.O.V.E. Is The Answer, Mural Celebration Day. For the past four years celebration has been happening around the country and we are delighted to finally take a part in this international movement. So what does this day mean and why are the pledges so important? This day is an opportunity for policing and the community to unite and learn to understand each other: bridge gaps, and be a part of the solution for change in our neighborhoods. The L.O.V.E. Is The Answer Pledge reads:

I pledge to (1) LEARN about the people in my community, (2) to unconditionally OPEN my heart to their needs as if they were all immediate family members, (3) to VOLUNTEER to be part of the solution in their lives during both good and challenging times, and (4) to EMPOWER everyone I meet to do the same as if our lives depended on each other.

As you look over at the mural, respectfully completed by Quinn Orr who will be speaking later this evening, we all know our community is hurting, but with this endeavor, we thought it would not only bring color to the city’s walls but provide a safe space for people to come heal, feel a sense of hope if they have lost a loved one from violence or disease; thus overall empowering community members to keep going on their darkest days. As we know, this is just one tool for everyone in the community to find a place of healing. Moreover, MCFC is committed to continuing to bridge gaps, opening our hearts to the community, and being there for our community in times of need.

We thank everyone who is attending this event today.


Dina Johnson Rochester, New York

(from the L.O.V.E. Event Saturday, September 17, 2022 3:00 PM-5:00 PM)

Monroe County Family Coalition is hosting its third annual back-to-school bach that is typically very well attended each year. Normally 500+ community members over the last 2 years.

This is a free event that includes hair stylists and haircuts, entertainment, a keynote speaker, youth engagement, and over 40+ vendors.

It also includes free stuffed book bags, raffles (last year an HP laptop was given away to support a youth), and free food too.

If interested in being a vendor, donating, or participating in any way, please send an email to mcfamilycoalition@gmail.com.

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About the MCFC

Making a Difference with MCFC

Monroe County Family Coalition, Inc. (MCFC) is a nonprofit organiztion formed by a group of Monroe County parents, teachers, and counselors, in the wake of the Black Families Matter rally that was held on June 20, 2020. The community within Greece, NY, came together with a vision to create opportunities for families to bring about change, and bridge inequality gaps in the community.

To consistently explore innovative ways to advocate on behalf of families within our region

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The Mission of the MCFC

To connect local families to community resources and bridge the gap between local government and partnering agencies and at-risk youth and families. To create safe places for a courageous dialog between various entities within the community that addresses diverse contentious matters.

Vision:

Creating opportunities for families to bring about change and bridge inequality gaps in the community.

Core values:

1. To serve the community with integrity.
2. To be committed to dependability.
3. To consistently explore innovative ways to advocate on behalf of families

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As we celebrate this new American holiday, let us take a stand against racism, educate ourselves on racial justice issues, and actively support organizations that work to eradicate racism in our community. Wishing You and Your Family Happy Juneteenth Day!

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One Day at a Time… We can make a difference. Acceptance, humility, patience and understanding. These ideals will bring about change for ourselves and our relationships. And in time . . . To the world!