‘Mothers Acting Up’
May 13 in Strafford

This MothersDay in Strafford won’t be limited to daffodils, cookies, and Hallmark cards, no sir.

On Sunday, May 13, "Strafford Mothers Acting Up" will sponsor a parade around the green, in Strafford. This event will be, organizers say, in the spirit of Mother's Day as it was originally envisioned.

The keynote speaker will be former Vermont Gov. Madeleine Kunin, who will be joined by writer Grace Paley and State Rep. Margaret Cheney.

In 1870, Julia Ward Howe started Mother's Day to unite mothers for peace and the well-being of all children, explained organizer Danette Harris. "Her cry for action is still relevant in 2007," she said.

She noted that the parade and rally will be open equally to mothers and "motherers"—others who want to protect and nurture our children. "When nearly half of the world's children live in poverty, it's time for mothers to go public," she said. "Children's well-being is at the top of every mother's agenda. It's time to bring it to the top of our political agenda."

The rally is part of a nationwide promotion from Los Angeles to New York City. Beginning at noon at the United Church of Strafford, the parade will proceed around the Strafford common and will culminate with an assembly to hear the speakers.

Harris urged participants to bring flags, posters, photos of children and banners with streamers.

For more information, call Harris at 802-765-4312 or go to www.mothersactingup.org.