News  Southern Berkshire to host one of nine statewide "signature court" events for the Massachusetts Trial Court's Sixth Annual Cultural Appreciation Week

The Berkshire courts and the Berkshire Community Justice Support Center have been chosen as hosts of one of 9 signature court events across the state where court, local leaders, and community residents will celebrate the Massachusetts Trial Court's Sixth Annual Cultural Appreciation Week beginning Monday, October 24. The theme is "Out of Many, We Are One = Equal Justice For ALL." The Berkshires will kick off the celebration at 9 am, in the James P. Dohoney Courthouse, 9 Gilmore Street in Great Barrington.

The Berkshire court hosts include Northern Berkshire, Southern Berkshire, Pittsfield, Superior, Juvenile, Probate & Family courts as well as the Berkshire Community Justice Support Center (CJSC). 

This celebration of culture and diversity will take place on the second floor of the courthouse and will feature a presentation on Polish roots and culture. Katherine Grubbs of CPCS will speak on diversity and the court. Clifford Flynn, Assistant Chief Probation Officer at Southern Berkshire, will share his personal family story. Dr. Shirley Edgerton will speak on “Life through the juvenile’s eyes.” Gwendolyn VanSant, CEO of Multicultural BRIDGE, will unveil a photo of W.E.B. Dubois—noted author, historian, and sociologist—who lived in the Berkshires. The day's events will also include a meet and greet with Probation staff, informational booths from the Community Justice Support Center, Multicultural BRIDGE, CATA (art through Disabilities), LitNET and Juvenile Court Photo Booth. CATA will display artwork, created by individuals with disabilities, for purchase. Proceeds will be donated to those in need. There will also be Irish Line Dancers who will perform at 10:30 am.