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Westborough – Former NFL cornerback George “Butch” Byrd knows what it's like to experience racism firsthand. As the third draft pick of the Buffalo Bills and the 25th overall pick in the 1963 NFL draft, Byrd, who now lives in Westborough, began his professional football career in 1964, the same year the Civil Rights Act was signed.
On April 24, Byrd addressed the staff at PENTA Communications, Inc., during a “Lunch and Learn” event as part of the company's participation in the YWCA's “Stand Against Racism™” movement.
“Stand Against Racism™” is an initiative that works toward eliminating racism by raising awareness. Organizations across the nation are invited to become participants by hosting their own “Stand” and bringing people together to raise awareness regarding racism.
Deborah Penta, the company's CEO, said she felt the event was important as it brought awareness to the topic of racism that still exists in America. The company is part of the United Nations Global Compact and participation in this event was in alignment with one of the compact's core principles of human rights.
“Although we live in a world where people are becoming more at ease with diversity, racism unfortunately still exists, and events such as the “YWCA's Stand Against Racism™” are wonderful opportunities to bring the topic into a realm where intelligent discussions can occur,” Penta said. “Perhaps most importantly, it makes everyone stop and think.”
For more information on Stand Against Racism™, visit www.standagainstracism.org.
