“The Beauty in the World Lies in the Diversity of its People.”
We Gather, Seeking Diversity and Mutual Respect
Interracial Conversations of the Northern Neck is an interfaith group from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds working together to understand our community's racial and cultural dynamics through honest and informed communication and purposeful actions to promote equality and opportunity for all residents. We recognize that unity of purpose can only be achieved in an environment where diversity is welcomed and everyone is respected.
We understand that action is the key to progress. Gaining a better understanding of our fellow human beings and the world can be an empowering catalyst that propels us in the right direction. Love is not just a feeling; it's a verb, and we are ready to take action to uplift those who have been marginalized within our community.
A Promise of Free and Open Dialogue
It is universally acknowledged that communication is vital to building strong relationships and is the foundation for successful interracial discussions. Our participants engage in free and open exchanges of ideas to build an understanding of the racial and cultural dynamic of our community, state, and nation.
The topics we delve into are not easy. Still, they are crucial, timely, and often deeply rooted in the systemic racism that has divided our nation for centuries. In a welcoming atmosphere of openness—driven by each participant's thirst for knowledge and desire to better understand another's perspective—these topics are thoroughly explored, leading to a deeper understanding and the potential for transformative solutions.
Our Goal: Unity of Purpose
At Interracial Conversations of the Northern Neck, we believe that understanding is the key to unity. We recognize that 'perception is reality,' but we also understand that personal experiences can color our perceptions. Through open dialogue and fellowship, we aim to explore these perceptions and strive for a clearer truth. Our ultimate goal is to achieve unity of purpose.
All are welcome to join the conversations. If you want to make a difference in our community and be a part of the solution to overcome inequality, join us and Interracial Conversations of the Northern Neck to significantly impact positive change in race relationships in the Northern Neck.
Upcoming Events
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A Conversation with The Link's Executive Director, Maggie Watts
This program was originally scheduled for January 27, when an ice storm kept everyone home. It has been re-scheduled for IRC's April 28 meeting.
The Link, which serves Lancaster and Northumberland Counties, has been providing "hope and help" since 2012. A partnership of churches and several helping agencies, The Link "links" persons in need with resources that can help them to become more self-sufficient.
Over the years, hundreds of our neighbors in the two counties who live on the edge financially have found monetary and other assistance when an unexpected event upsets the balance. In addition, as needs and challenges have become apparent, The Link has added programs and services. Perhaps most notable among these additions are the Link's Employment Service, which began in 2022, and the hiring of the first paid, full-time Executive Director of The Link, Maggie Watts, in 2025.
On April 28, come and engage in a conversation with Maggie. Learn how and why The Link began, how it operates, who it serves, and what its current challenges are. Hear some encouraging stories of how The Link has made an impact on the lives of people in our two counties.
Please join us onTuesday, April 28, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM, at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 6749 Jessie Dupont Memorial Highway, Heathsville, VA.As always, everyone is welcome.
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JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
Saturday, June 20, 2026 from Noon until 6 PM
SAVE THE DATE! Please join us at Ma Margaret’s House B&B, 249 Greenfield Road, Reedville, VA from 12 PM to 6 PM celebrating NNK Family Folktales and Legends!
There will be outstanding food, Genealogy, Storytelling, and Live Entertainment. If you went to Juneteeth last year, you know what we’re saying. If you didn’t, PLEASE join us this year for a great and meaningful afternoon!
This event is free and open to the public (modest charge for foods of your selection).
ALL ARE WELCOME!
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Road trip 2026: Boston, MA
August 30 - September 3, 2026
IRC has made plans for, and applied for grants for, a bus trip to Boston, MA. This will be a five-day, four-night trip. African Americans figured in events in and around Boston from before the Revolution, in the Civil War, and beyond. We will have the opportunity to visit Boston's African American National Historic Site. We will take a two-hour bus tour with a hop-on guide, "Black Boston's Hidden History." And, we can walk all or part of the famous "Freedom Trail."
We will stay at the Omni Parker House Hotel in the Beacon Hill area of Boston, in double-occupancy rooms. Depending upon how much grant money IRC receives, we hope to keep the per person cost to about $400. A flyer describing this trip (pictured above) can be accessed at 2026 Boston Road Trip -- flyer.
UPDATE!
Interest and participation have been wonderful! Currently, there is one double room still available. This could accommodate a couple or two friends rooming together. The estimated per person cost of the trip is $425 to $450.
If you would like to participate,
please give your name to Judy Thomson, thomsonjudy@gmail.com,
as soon as possible!
(No deposit is required at this time--only an expression of interest in participating.)All are welcome! Bring your partner, bring a friend--join us!