Today's dialogue on racism focused on black infant mortality

YOUNGSTOWN

Community leaders gathered at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church for a dialogue on racism that focused on reducing black infant mortality, which occurs at a rate more than double the rate for whites in Mahoning County.

The leaders, however, didn’t limit themselves to listening to speeches about that topic.

In addition to signing in with contact information, the 65 attendees at the Thursday forum were asked to sign an individual action pledge indicating their areas of interest and expertise and willingness to volunteer, to be trained, to join a problem-solving organization or to perform independent research.

“We want them to be part of an action to do something about this problem of black infant mortality, and, even greater, the issue of racism within our community,” said Penny Wells, a dialogue organizing committee member.

“We’re not just about talking; we’re about doing,” she added.

Read more about the event and how you can get involved in Friday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.