( November 3, 1998)

Erace's Fifth Birthday

(Click here for the printable version)

Putting business before pleasure, Erace will celebrate its fifth anniversary at noon Saturday, Nov. 14, with a free party after its regular meeting at Café Reconcile (1631 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.).

For half of a decade, Erace has been confronting the racial issues between whites and blacks through open discussions and by spreading their message of "all colors with love and respect" through bumper stickers.

The concept of Eracism evolved from the written response of Rhoda Faust, chairwoman and co-founder of Erace, to a reader's opinion on a series of race-related articles in The Times-Picayune. Coffeehouse conversations and gatherings of all races soon followed.

"I wanted to set the record straight," says Faust. "Most white people don't feel hateful or afraid of black people," a sentiment suggested by the letter to the editor.

Erace now boasts more than 500 members, and its influence has been seen throughout the country as groups in the northern and western United States began using the popular "Eracism" bumper sticker concept in their organizations.

"We welcome everybody and want to give out thousands and thousands of bumper stickers at the party," says Faust.

A probable discussion topic for the anniversary meeting is "the
positive or negative effects that Erace members have witnessed resulting from their participation in the group." Entertainment and refreshments will be available, as well as—of course—Eracism bumper stickers.

The party will last from noon to 3 p.m. Erace meetings are held twice a week. For more information, call 866-1163. – J.K.B.