The members of the Breakthrough Project are appalled and disturbed by the events as described by Yvette Galvan ("We need to address racism issue in Lodi," Lodinews.com, Oct. 13, 2003) and want to publicly apologize to her on behalf of the community at large.

Comprised of members of the Lodi community, the Breakthrough Project has worked since its inception in 1998 to "create a community that celebrates its diversity and works to eliminate all forms of social oppression, racism and bigotry."

We have been addressing the issues of racism and intolerance through a variety of educational events, public speaker forums and ties to local area high schools.

We have sponsored and participated in several annual community events such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Observance, Mexican Independence Day, and the Celebration on Central.

Our Breakthrough Response Team coordinates with the Lodi Police Department to provide a quick response and assistance to victims of hate crimes. The Education Committee develops educational opportunities that promote religious tolerance, cultural awareness and understanding and foster interaction between all ethnic groups.

Ms. Galvan, Lodi is a wonderful community that values its diversity. Please tell your niece and nephews that the treatment they were subjected to was intolerable and that there are people in this community, your neighbors, who are working to ensure it doesn't happen again.

We welcome all members of the community to attend our meetings and events. For more information, or to assist in making Lodi "livable and lovable" for all people, contact the Breakthrough Project at 369-1062.

David Hill

President

Jeff Williamson

Secretary

Breakthrough Project

Lodi