Bree Newsome, Neighborhood Organizer and Civil Rights Activist, to Communicate at RVCC Digital Occasion On April 28

(BRANCHBURG, NJ) – The public is invited to attend “Tearing Hatred from the Sky: A Lecture and Discussion with Bree Newsome” on Wednesday April 28 at 7:00 pm. The free virtual lecture is sponsored by the Humanities, Social Sciences, Social Work, and Education (HSSE) Department of Raritan Valley Community College.

Bree Newsome, a community organizer and activist who removed the Confederate flag from the South Carolina State House, will discuss how a triumphant act of civil disobedience can spark a movement and inspire others to join activism.

This contemporary civil rights icon first attracted national attention in June 2015 for its daring act of peaceful disobedience. After the brutal murder of nine black parishioners at Mother Emmanuel Church in Charleston, SC, Newsome climbed the flagpole in the South Carolina statehouse and tore the Confederate Battle flag in protest against racist symbolism. Her arrest has sparked public opinion and led to the permanent removal of the flag.

As the recognized and acclaimed voice on injustice and racial discrimination, Newsome brings to light the importance of leadership development in building and sustaining social movements.

An accomplished filmmaker and musician, Newsome skillfully outlines the relationship between activism and the arts and engages audiences by describing in cinematic detail the heroic gestures of ordinary people on the activist frontline.

Those interested in the event, which takes place via Zoom, should register online.

Listed as the # 1 Community College in New Jersey by WalletHub.com, Intelligent.com, and Niche.com. Raritan Valley Community College has been an academic and cultural center for Somerset and Hunterdon Counties for over 50 years. The college has been recognized nationally for its community service, environmental stewardship, and commitment to diversity. It is home to a planetarium, a science education institute, and an honors college for high-achievement students.

The college offers more than 90 associate degrees and certificates, as well as professional training, small business support through the Small Business Development Center, and professional development courses. RVCC is located at 118 Lamington Road in Branchburg, NJ.

originally published: 04/06/2021