Dallas is launching a program to improve race relations in the city.
On Wednesday, Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings unveiled the "Conversations About Race" initiative with City Councilman Dwaine Caraway and Dallas County Commissioner Elba Garcia.
"Race is a difficult discussion to have, but we will never get beyond our differences if we aren't brave enough to reverse racial disparities and move our city towards full equity, inclusion and dignity for everyone," said Rawlings.
The program is called "Conversations About Race" because city officials are planning a four-part series of forums on the subject and are encouraging the public to attend.
"This is our moment to be honest, to be heroes and to heal, so we can truly all work towards making Dallas a 21st century city," said Caraway.
The first forum will focus on the media with panel members probing ways that racial issues are handled in news coverage.
"These events will present solution-focused dialogues on race; bringing together some of the best minds on this important subject," said County Commissioner Garcia.
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Rawlings said Dallas have become a very integrated city, with people of all races living in all parts of the city.
"This is not a north, south, white and black issues anymore," said Rawlings. "The good news, we're living together, but that's also one of the challenges. We need to understand each other."
The first forum will be held on Saturday, Sept. 21, is free and open to everyone who wants to attend, though you will have to register for the event. You can click on this link to register for the forum on Sept. 21.
