A DIVERSITY Walk and Civic Celebration in Redditch has been deemed ‘a great show of strength’ for the community.
People met up for the walk at Bordesley Abbey and Forge Mill at 11am on Sunday (September 11) before heading for the bandstand on Church Green where the parade truly began.
From here, led by a Chinese lion, the diverse crowd, including organiser Mayor Joe Baker and Council Leader Bill Hartnett, walked to the packed Town Hall where singing, Indian dancing, Polish poetry , readings from many religions texts and quotes from great world leaders were shared and appreciated.
Local community leaders also spoke of the importance of diversity in the town and the celebration ended with a group rendition of the national anthem.
Mayor Baker said: “The event was a great show of strength for community and faiths coming together and the themes of diversity, inclusion and acceptance were demonstrated throughout the day.
“I am overwhelmed by how well my civic celebration went and I am so pleased that it all came together well and no one was left out.
“Normally we have the civic celebration in St Stephens Church but this year I wanted to make the service more accessible for everyone.”
“I wanted to have a venue where everyone felt they could be included, it’s for those of faith and no faith,”
Leader of the Council, Bill Hartnett added: “Joe’s civic celebration was a great success, and the theme of diversity was really demonstrated.
“I am proud of the community we have in Redditch, and I spoke to many people during the walk and at the town hall who all said they they enjoyed the day.”
