Weekend event “Race Against Racism” to be held at JP Jones Center on Sunday

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTVF) - The feeling of finishing a race is one of the draws to the activity, but an upcoming event in Fairbanks aims to go beyond simply racing.

This weekend, the “Race Against Racism” event has stepped up to showcase diversity in the community.

Held at the JP Jones Center, the event is being prepared by volunteers, Exclusive Paving, and many more organizations.

On Sunday, June 11, residents and their loved ones can participate in this family-friendly event, which starts at 3 p.m.

First run in 1998, the event has become not only a small way to teach people about the community, it has become a stepping stone to other events including Juneteenth.

The race’s course was chosen to highlight the work of multiple figures in Fairbanks history.

Race director Andy Harrington explained, “It’s routed to go past landmarks or parks or buildings, that are named after people from diverse backgrounds who have made some real contribution to the quality of life here in the Interior. Like the JP Jones Center, Bernice Allridge Park, the Chief Andrew Issac Health Center.”

Registration for the event starts at 2 p.m. and there is a fee.

Juneteenth is also coming up on Saturday, June 17, the following Monday, and will be also be held at the J.P. Jones Center.

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