Manhattan residents gathered Monday for an important discussion on race and reconciliation. On Monday February 24th more than 100 people filled Pottorf Hall to hear from a diverse group of panelists, each with different experiences.
After the panelists shared their stories the community members who were seated at tables had conversations among themselves. The tables had community members of different backgrounds who shared their stories and viewpoints in judgement free zones.
The panelists who spoke at the event are Event supervisor at Flint Hills Discovery Center Jonathan Mertz, Professor of Finance at K-State Tareque Nasser, Executive Director of Ogden Friendship House of Hope Cathy Austin, US Army Veteran and Business Analyst Kaleb James , Retired Instrumental Strings Teacher Linetta Hill, and Spanish Teacher at MHS Carmen Elizabeth Wilson.
James, who grew up in a multiracial family shared a personal experience from his childhood where he first experienced racism head on.
Austin who is from the Philippines shared her story on being alone in the community after her husband was deployed.
Nasser who is from Bangladesh shared his experience.
Wilson who was born in Peru and met her husband in Germany shared her experience when her husband was deployed.
Photos taken by Derek Darr News Radio KMAN
Here is the full audio from the panelists at the event.
