Neighbor Day

Neighbor Day

Sunday before Memorial Day weekendIn 1993, following a local hate crime incident between teenagers that left one dead and another in jail, the town of Westerly, R.I., instituted Neighbor Day to promote the idea that all citizens should "Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself."
Citizens of Westerly celebrate Neighbor Day by getting to know better other people in their community. Town officials and local business leaders sponsor and host social gatherings to foster interactions between residents. Private individuals host open houses for their neighbors and friends. Friendly contacts via mail, email, or telephone are also encouraged.
The concept of a Neighbor Day has been promoted by Westerly and adopted in several other cities: Providence, R.I., celebrates a National Neighborhood Day, while Seattle, Wash., celebrates a Neighbor Appreciation Day.
CONTACTS:
Town Clerk, Town Hall
45 Broad St.
Westerly, RI 02891
fax: 401-348-2571
www.neighbordayworldwide.com