SYRACUSE, NY (WSYR-TV) - Ducks of a different feather took to the Syracuse Inner Harbor at the 9th Annual Duck Race to End Racism on Saturday afternoon.
People of all ages raced their decorated ducks while symbolizing the importance of equality. The event benefits "Community Wide Dialogue," a program of Interfaith Works. Director Derrick Dorsey said the proceeds sustain CWD's programming throughout the year.
"This allows us to go into community centers and camps and begin to have a safe space and a safe place for students to have conversations about stereotypes, bullying, racism, allies," Dorsey said.
He said many people tend to avoid acknowledging racism in the community.
"Companies in their hiring practices are not hiring representatives and qualified folks in the community. They're not realizing the power of diversity," Dorsey said.
The Corporate Sponsor race featured ducks elaborately decorated by local businesses. 65 third-grade classrooms decorated their own ducks for a second race, and community members raced with multi-colored ducklings to win a variety of prizes.
More than 140 volunteers donated their time to make the event possible.
"It's the people that keep it going," Dorsey said.
