LEWISTON — The third annual community Stand Against Racism event will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 26, at the YWCA of Central Maine, 130 East Ave.

This year’s Stand focuses on Youth Social Justice; all interested youths and adults are invited to join in making a Pledge Against Racism and a commitment to a lifetime of promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or class.

All over the country, YWCAs are organizing Stand Against Racism events to raise awareness that racism still exists today. The day will consist of a walk from East Avenue to Bartlett Street to Walnut Street and Webster Street and back to the YWCA for a public stand in front of the YWCA as a public demonstration that racism cannot be tolerated.

Students from Bates College as well as Lewiston’s 21st Century Afterschool Program will be participating and sharing their thoughts or experiences through poetry, prose, art, music or dance. Members of the public are encouraged to join and share in the conversation.

The Stand Against Racism was a great success last year, so this year the Y is intensifying efforts to exceed expectations. The first 75 participants will receive T-shirts as symbols of the dedication to eliminate racism.

Registration, coffee and refreshments will begin at 2 p.m., followed by the open invitation for participants to Stand Up and Speak at
2:15. Group poster making will be held at 2:40 .

The march from the YWCA and back will be at 3:20 p.m., followed at 4 by a 15-minute Stand at 130 East Ave.

For more information, visit www.standagainstracism.org.