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Changing the future by reflecting on the past.Delta McNeish |
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Despite many efforts of the international community racism remains one of the biggest problems of our time. Indirect or blatant discrimination and hate continues to fray the delicate tapestry of the human web, and will continue to do so without direct and immediate intervention. Dialogue is a positive tool toward laying a strong foundation of education. With education comes understanding, with understanding, patience grows to a level of acceptance that will foster a safe and solid community. On February 16, 2008, The Paul Lewis Room held a forum where racism was discussed. The subjects covered were Identifying Discrimination and Strategies for Dealing with Racism. During this process the concern that these issues were often talked about but never acted upon was voiced several times from various participants. A plan of action for 2008 was formulated which included contacting MP’s, MPP’s and City Counselors to get their help and input into a plan of education. Attempts would be made to get discussions going in schools, both among teachers and students, in order to educate them on the need to understand the various cultures in the school system. Ongoing discussions and plans for action will continue throughout the year at the Paul Lewis Room. Communication with Paul Lewis Room members and other interested parties will be done via telephone, email and the Paul Lewis Room web site at www.PaulLewisRoom.org. Membership DriveA membership drive is underway and currently there is no fee attached, although this may change in the near future. A pool of dedicated individuals is needed to keep up the efforts that were started at the forum. Research needs to be done to identify the causes of racism in all levels of society, especially the schools. Educational programs need to be formulated and carried out to ensure that teachers and students have the resources to maintain a racism free environment. Ongoing contact with government officials is needed to ensure support from all levels of government. In the future, a membership fee may be established to help defray the cost of these efforts. Help put out the fire of racism!Join us todayMembershipIf you wish to join the Paul Lewis Room Please complete and print this form and leave at or mail to
The Paul Lewis Room
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430 Grey St. London, Ontario. N6B 1H3 phone: 519 679 9402
If Racism Was a Fire, What Would You Use to extinguish it?
Acceptance of the Human Dynamic
Celebration of Achievements
Discussion of Differences
End Racial Conflict
Call to arrange: School field trips
Workshops on Racism & Black History
Counseling on Race Relations
Contact Person: Delta McNeish MA/CE CPC
Phone (519) 679 9402
email: h2h@intercessionministries.org
For general information or to report errors on this page you can contact George at info@paullewisroom.org
 Mr. Paul LewisA Short Biography |
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“A thoughtful man, born with a creative incentive to do great things so impressively - inspiring and helping children and adults of all ages...” (program for Beth Emanuel Church, April 1970) |
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Born in 1889, Philadelphia. Arrived in London 1914, became a trustee at Beth Emanuel Church, collected funds for the church for years: also served as choir director, soloist and clarinet player. Only known stage role: Genisis in the London Drama League’s production of Seventeen by Booth Tarkington, although Paul possibly did extra work in other programs. Supported and organized the “Canadian League for the Advancement of Colored Peoples,” founded in London 1925. Worked at White’s Barbershop as a porter and shoe shine man for 32 years; shop was located at 197½ Dundas Street, near Richmond Street until the owner, Charley White, died in 1948; shop was closed three weeks later. Sought employment as a janitor at Silverwoods. In later life became a sought-after subject for photographers and painters; some were displayed at national exhibitions. Wife, Ruth died in 1959. Auditioned (unsuccessfully) for the role of Joe in the Grand Theatre’s production of Showboat. (1968) Received Civic Honour in 1970 for “almost daily acts of cheerful goodwill.” Entered the Dearness home in 1971. Died July 1974; money collected as a trust fund for Paul was put towards a music award for Grade 12 students. |