Local governments across Franklin, Colbert and Lauderdale counties joined governments across the nation in proclaiming June 13 as Race Amity Day, a day to recognize that the people and diversity of this nation is its greatest asset.

The goal of Race Amity Day is to recognize that the United States comprises people of different races, cultures and ethnicities and to encourage friendship, kindness and respect among all.

“I love everyone being unified and being together,” said the Rev. Charles Dale, who helped organize the event in Franklin County. “That is something that we should all be about.”

Russellville City Council signed a proclamation for the observance at its most recent council meeting, and the Franklin County Commission approved the resolution at Monday’s work session and will sign it at this coming Monday’s meeting.

Mayor David Grissom said he could not think of a better way than Race Amity Day to represent the City of Russellville.

“It represents everything that Russellville is,” Grissom said. “We have such a diverse community of multiracial, multicultural and multi-ethnic people working together. That is what makes Russellville so great.”

Franklin County Commission Chairman Barry Moore agreed, adding unity is something everyone should encourage.

“It is always great when we can set aside a day to remind each other how much better we are together,” Moore said.