(Kiener Plaza - Walk -As-One", L to R, John and Nikki Hara, Robin Hattori, Cathy Chu, and Laura Paige)

Fights Bias, Bigotry, and Racism in America
Respect among all Races, Religions, and Cultures
NCCJ held its first
"Walk as One" walk-a-thon, downtown St. Louis

This Saturday, October 28th, in downtown St. Louis, the National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) held its first "Walk as One" walk-a-thon,devoted to creating harmony within our community. "The NCCJ fights bias,bigotry, and racism in America and promotes understanding and respect among all races, religions, and cultures." Funds raised by walkers go toward the NCCJ Youth Leadership Programs.

The festivities began at 9am with introductions by Rev. Martin Rafanan,Executive Director of NCCJ and Mayor Clarence Harmon. Pre-walk entertainment included a spirtually-moving dance by the Liturgy Dancers of St. Alphonsus "Rock" Church; a stirring acapella rendition of "America", and quest appearances by the Post-Dispatch weatherbird and the St. Louis River Otter Mascots.

Mayor Harmon led the walk at 10am, from Kiener Plaza on 7th st., west on Market to 20th st., crossing and returning to 7th via Chestnut. A wonderful morning walk on a brisk autumn day, with a beautiful view of serene downtown St. Louis was enjoyed by all. Upon returning to Kiener Plaza, food was provided by walk-a-thon sponsors: St. Louis Bread Co., Krispy Kreme, Moore Foods, Red Lobster,Olive Garden, Chili's, McDonald's, and Coca-Cola. Further entertainment included bagpipes music and raffle drawings.

A group of walkers from the Asian American community was coordinated by Cathy Chu, Vice President of the Coalition of Asian Pacific Americans (CAPA).Walkers included; Cathy Chu, Dr. John and Nikki Hara, Robin Hattori, Simon Huang, Laura Paige, Judis Santos, and Phoong Tang. Asian organizations represented among these walkers include CAPA, the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA), the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL),SUWA Sister City, and the Japanese American Society of Women Association(JASWA).