Battle Creek Community to Gather for National Day of Racial Healing 2026
- BCTRHT Team
- Jan 8
- 2 min read
January 8, 2026
Battle Creek, MI: The Battle Creek Coalition for Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation
(BCTRHT), together with local community partners, will host the National Day of Racial Healing on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the DoubleTree by Hilton. This annual gathering invites residents from across the region to reflect, connect, and imagine what is possible when communities choose healing.
This year’s gathering marks the 10th anniversary of the National Day of Racial Healing and comes as both the City of Battle Creek and the State of Michigan have officially proclaimed January 20, 2026, as National Day of Racial Healing. The theme, “Rhythm of Our Humanity,” celebrates the shared heartbeat that connects us all and affirms that joy and connection remain possible even in challenging times.
“National Day of Racial Healing is a space where we can pause, breathe, and remember that we belong to one another,” said Elizabeth Garcia, Co-Executive Director of BCTRHT. “This event brings people across race, age, culture, and lived experience into one room to celebrate connection and affirm the humanity we all share.”
The evening will include a community blessing by Pastor Michael Patton (Urban League of Battle Creek), performances by the Sojourner Truth Choir, dinner, and guided conversation to help guests connect across tables.
The event is free and open to the public, thanks to the generous support of local sponsors and partners. Registration is required due to limited seating.
“Racial healing is everyday work, and this gathering is one way we honor the people who do that work year round,” said Tha Par, Co-Executive Director. “We look forward to an evening filled with community, culture, and shared hope.”
To register or learn more, visit: https://shorturl.at/4Dt4B
About BCTRHT
The Battle Creek Coalition for Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation (BCTRHT) creates spaces for people and organizations to share stories, connect, and work together toward shared goals. Guided by our vision, a community where all belong, thrive, and are free, BCTRHT focuses on building authentic relationships, uplifting community voice, and fostering collective healing grounded in love, care, and abundance.
###
Press Contact:
Tha Par, BCTRHT Co-Executive Director, Tha@bctrht.org, (269) 589-2292 Elizabeth Garcia, BCTRHT Co-Executive Director, Elizabeth@bctrht.org, 269-348-5453