As founder and CEO of Stand Together Against Racism (S.T.A.R.), I am deeply honored to celebrate our organization’s fifth anniversary—a milestone made possible by the unwavering support of the New Canaan community and our many partners.
Five years ago, S.T.A.R. was born out of a collective call for justice following the murder of George Floyd. What began with a march through our town and a commitment to partnership with the New Canaan Police has grown into a movement that empowers residents with the tools, resources, and brave spaces needed to drive transformative change. Our mission remains clear: to ensure that everyone in New Canaan feels they belong.
Over the years, S.T.A.R. has brought people together through impactful programming—from our Juneteenth celebrations drawing hundreds, to youth art showcases that elevate student voices on social justice, our annual fund-raiser, Soul•Fête which is a celebration of elevated black cuisine and culture, and many more. We have seen trust grow, conversations deepen, and new allies step forward. These successes are a testament to the power of community engagement and the belief that real change happens when we work together.
Yet, we must acknowledge that the work is far from done. The current political climate has heightened polarization around issues of race and equity, sometimes making it harder for people to engage in honest dialogue. National debates over how we teach and talk about racism have reached our own schools and neighborhoods, creating both challenges and opportunities for growth. We know that addressing racism is not a one-time event but a continuous journey—one that requires courage, humility, and persistence.
As Connecticut continues to confront racism as a public health crisis, S.T.A.R. stands ready to help our community lead by example. We invite every resident—regardless of background or political belief—to join us in building a more inclusive, equitable New Canaan. Let us celebrate how far we have come, but also recommit to the hard work ahead.
Together, we can ensure that New Canaan remains a place where everyone truly belongs.