National Night Out meant to bring local people together
The Ralph Bunche Neighborhood Association is holding National Night Out: Fellowship in the Park from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 17 at Ralph Bunche Park, 1300 East St. in Benton.
“This is an opportunity for people to come together to build better relationships,” Association member Robin Freeman said.
She explained this event is a takeaway from the recent Dialogues on Race where people expressed a desire for more chances to get to know one another and understand each other. She sees it as a way to work toward a community where everyone feels they can belong.
She said it is combined with National Night Out, an event the association has held for a few years to give the community the chance to get to know
law enforcement and first responders. She added it has been a great way for people of color to get to know law enforcement in the past.
“Lets have everyone use this as an opportunity, a springboard to better conversations,” Freeman said.
Organizers are planning child-friendly team building activities for small groups to engage in dialogue while practicing social distancing.
The event sponsors include the city of Benton, the Wilma Stewart Garden Club, First Security Bank, Maples Insurance and the Central Arkansas Development Council.
From 4 to 4:30 p.m., the association plans to serve food. Freeman said they plan to have a diverse group grilling and serving.
From 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., they will have the activities.
For the last 30 minutes, special guests, including Benton Mayor Tom Farmer and Elect Temple Church of God in Christ Pastor Karl Barnes, will give short talks. Freeman said they are still working on the guest speaker list.
If it rains the event will be moved to Oct. 18.
Except when eating, all attendees must wear a mask. Social distancing will be practiced.
Attendees should bring lawn chairs due to limited seating.
“In light of the current environment in the country, we need more opportunities where we can come together and bridge the gap on race relations,” Freeman said.