Those conversations were also happening in Erie, often online. Part of Being Better Neighbors is the private Facebook group, where Erie residents from all walks of life and political affiliations can have frank, respectful conversations.

Whether the conversation is about race, politics, or gender and sexuality, Being Better Neighbors offers “a welcome place to state your own ignorance to really learn about that which you don’t understand,” said Justin Brooks, the nonprofit’s treasurer.

“They’re willing to do one thing in common, and that’s have a conversation with one another and actually engage and learn about something that they don’t really have a full understanding of.”

Unfortunately, Brooks and other founding members of Being Better Neighbors have not always felt welcomed in Erie.

“My very first outing when I moved here, walking into a restaurant, at least three people rolled their eyes at me,” recalled Mecca Scott, the president of the nonprofit. “That’s where the education needs to happen.”

Part of that education comes from hosting community events. From 2 to 5 p.m. on Juneteenth (June 19), Being Better Neighbors hosted its first-ever Juneteenth celebration at Coal Creek Park. Juneteenth—now a federal holiday—commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

The Being Better Neighbors event featured live music, local artists of color, and local vendors. More information is available here. The organization has also compiled a list of resources for people looking to be a better ally to marginalized communities.

Brooks doesn’t agree with people who ask why these types of events and community conversations around race and politics are taking place in towns like Erie.

“I think it’s something that’s needed everywhere,” he said. “I think …  ‘Why not Erie?’ is the better question.”