Swampscott task force to hold respect walk

SWAMPSCOTT – The Swampscott Task Force for Respect of Human Differences will host the second annual Community Walk for Respect June 14.The 2.2 mile community walk will begin at the Nahant Rotary and continue to Swampscott High School on Essex Street, where the school will host a Spring Arts Festival after the walk.Those who want to take a shorter route can begin at Town Hall and catch on with the group as they walk to the high school.This year, the walk will feature a representation of walkers from Swampscott and Nahant as well as from Salem and Marblehead.Organizers say varied respect artwork will be displayed along the route and eye-opening statistics with regard to bias will be available as well.In addition, 15-year-old author Brigette Berman will be speaking about bullying and discussing her new book ‘Dorie Witt’s Guide to Surviving Bullies.’ She will also be signing her books and taking questions at the Spring Arts Festival.People are asked to park their cars at the Swampscott High School on Essex Street and take free shuttle bus service to either the start of the Long walk at the Nahant Rotary or the start of the Short walk at the Swampscott Town Hall Green. Registration will take place at both respective starting areas.The first 200 registrants are guaranteed to receive a respect T-shirt.Some new colors are available and are different than last year’s shirts. The event is $8 per person and kids 3 and under are free.No one will be turned away due to inability to pay.All funds will support the Anti-Bias Programming in the community.Volunteers are needed from all communities.Call Jessica O’Gorman at 781-696-5031 or Paula Bonazzoli at 781-593-8515 for more information.The rain or shine event will take place Sunday, June 14. Participants should arrive at Swampscott High School by 12:30 p.m. Registration will begin at 12:45 p.m. and the walk is slated to start at 1 p.m.