

(A proposed window sign/button design by Hate-Free Delridge’s Rob Becker, held by Susan Lebow)

By Linda Ball

Reporting for West Seattle Blog

What started out four weeks ago with a meeting of concerned neighbors reacting to a hate crime in Pigeon Point has developed into a cohesive grass-roots group, determined to bring people together with the message of tolerance, inclusion, and community.

The core group met again, this time at Lisa Kauffman’s Puget Ridge home. Present were Rob Becker, Dave Gamrath, Stu Hennessey, Susan Lebow, Steve Richmond, and Pavan Vangipuram, all of whom have been with the group from the start (along with Rachel Glass, who was unable to attend).

Hennessey said he has spoken with the victim, Stephanie Endres. She wasn’t able to attend the meeting but said she’s aware of what’s being done by the group, called Hate-Free Delridge, as first reported here last month. Now, details for its official introduction and mission-kickoff event later this month have been firmed up:

The Hate-Free Delridge Community Gathering will be held September 24th in the Thelma Dewitty Theater at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW). Doors will open at 4 pm, with free dinner and potluck at 5 pm. A main dish will be provided, but bring a dish to share if you wish! All Delridge-area residents are invited, as well as the broader West Seattle community.

“We’re addressing an ugly thing that happened in our area,” Becker said. He has been working hard on visuals such as small posters to place in your window, and designs for buttons:

Vangipuram, of OneAmerica, has reached out to Mayor Murray’s office in hopes that he will attend at least for a short time. Additionally, Lebow has reached out to our area’s City Councilmember Lisa Herbold.

Dubbed a “party with a purpose,” Hate-Free Delridge wants people to have fun, too. So, there will be music provided by local musicians, and open-microphone time for attendees to share their thoughts or, if so inclined, perform a song or two. A PA system, mixer, speakers, and microphones will all be provided. Activities for kids are planned as well.

Although Hate-Free Delridge has not formed an “official” mission statement, they hope this event will encourage people to get to know each other, to create a neighborhood that is inclusive. A sign-in sheet will be available for those who want to get involved. The event is for everyone, but organizers promise to reach out to the LGBTQ community as well as communities of color.

Hate-Free Delridge organizers are excited about the event, even giddy, and hope you will attend! An after-party is planned at The Skylark across the street (3803 Delridge Way SW) for anyone who wishes to continue the conversation and have a cool one.