As a follow up to the recent peaceful solidarity gathering on the Camden Village Green, three Camden women are forming groups to discuss systemic racism in the community and state, according to State Representative Vicki Doudera, in a news release.

Camden Area Conversation Circles (CACC) will be modeled on the talking circle process used successfully by restorative justice groups, and are being organized by Doudera, Rev. Ute Molitor, and Molly Mulhern.

Individual discussion groups will be led by trained community members, and will meet virtually and/or in-person throughout the summer to discuss two timely books and a film: White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism, by Robin DiAngelo; The Guest Book, a multigenerational novel set partially on a Maine island, by Sarah Blake; and the 2020 film Just Mercy.

Books will be available locally at the Owl & Turtle Bookstore and financial help is available for those needing assistance to purchase the books.

To sign up as a participant or a leader, please fill out the intake form by June 25. Group leaders will work with and contact their participants to schedule virtual or in-person meetings that will take place in July.

For more information, please call Rep. Doudera at 207-542-1990.