In recent weeks the assertion that Black lives matter has appeared again and again in social media, news outlets, and private conversations, according to Derik Smith of The Local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Claremont.

“It seems that many throughout the world, across the country, and here in Claremont are recognizing that humanity’s journey toward authentic unity cannot proceed unless the perspectives and experiences of Black people are at the center of global, national and local conversations about justice, society and governance,”?Mr. Smith said.

In the effort to center Black perspectives at the local level, the Claremont Baha’i community is sponsoring a moderated series of conversations featuring Black Claremonters.

This virtual forum is open to all who are interested in elevated, productive and honest conversation about living in Claremont while Black.

The series will begin with a conversation with Rolondo Talbott, a member of Claremont’s Police Commission, on Sunday, July 19 at 4 p.m., and will recur every two weeks.

In the series we’ll hear from a diverse group of Black Claremonters, each of whom will talk about what it’s like to live in the city, and what might be done to make our community accessible, safe and welcoming for Black people.

The conversations fostered in this series are meant to move our community toward justice and unity, which are principles held sacred by Baha’is, and among people of faith and goodwill everywhere.

After sharing perspectives, the featured speakers will engage the audience in a moderated question and answer session. All who would like to be part of this conversation are welcome.

To attend these Zoom-based conversations, please send an email to claremontlsa@gmail.com.  

Claremont ZOOM calendar

SUNDAY, JULY 19

Claremont Educational Foundation is hosting a Virtual Drag Queen Bingo fundraiser at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 19. The event, on Zoom, is for people 18 and over. Cost is $20 per ticket, which includes eight rounds of Bingo and a complimentary 12-ounce beer or root beer from Last Name Brewing. Burger kits from Electric City Butcher are also available for purchase.  To register, visit www.supportcef.com/events.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 22

Learn how memory works and what can go wrong. Also covers treatments and caregiver tips. An opportunity will be given for you to take part in a sampling of the type of screening tests used to diagnose dementia. Free online class offered by Inter Valley Health Plan on Wednesday, July 22 at 10 a.m.

For more classes and to receive log in information to these classes, visit: ivhp.com/vitality or call (800) 886-4471 (TTY 711) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Leaders from several cities in the Pomona Valley have been studying the recently passed legislation (AB 857) allowing local municipalities to establish Public Banks.  The purpose is to allow local control of public funds and take advantage of low interest lending for local projects.  Is this a good idea for our region? 

The Tri-Cities (Pomona, Claremont, La Verne) Public Banking Study Group, along with the national Public Banking Institute, are presenting an online town hall on this timely topic on Wednesday, July 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. Registration is at https://sites.google.com/view/tri-cities-public-banking.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 29

Feed Your Brain: How to Choose Brain Super Foods, free online class offered by Inter Valley Health Plan. What we put in our mouths may determine brain health. Learn the different diets and super foods that may preserve or even enhance brain health. Wednesday, July 29 at 10 a.m. For more classes and to receive log in information to these classes, visit: ivhp.com/vitality or call (800) 886-4471 (TTY 711) Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.