Newton Upstanders

Newton Upstanders is an action-oriented group in Newton, MA dedicated to promoting justice and a sense of belonging in our community. We support diversity, equity,  and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and oppose local or national efforts to undermine these fundamental community values.

Who We Are

We are a network of Newton, MA community members who care deeply about DEI in our schools and throughout our city. We are caregivers, activists, lawyers, tradespeople, marketers, educators, researchers, medical professionals, frontline workers, and organizers who came together to reject the false narrative that DEI initiatives are at odds with academic excellence.

Newton Upstanders takes action when we see local or national efforts to undermine DEI initiatives in our community. We show up to speak out in support of those initiatives when they are under attack or being undermined. If you are interested in aligning with us, please sign our values and up for our email list so you can stay in the know about upcoming initiatives and actions.

We are a grassroots group in Newton connected by the belief that our DEI initiatives make us a stronger community for everyone.  To learn more about how our community values are being undermined and what you can do about it please read our FAQ page.

Community Events

Juneteenth @Newton is Back! 

Monday, June 19 | 12:00-4:00 pm

Hyde Playground, 90 Lincoln Street, Newton Highlands 

This Celebration marks our national holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved Americans and invites all residents and visitors to come together to respect, honor, and celebrate diverse cultures through food, music, dance and support of local black-owned businesses. This event will also showcase the variety of ways our community promotes equity for residents and students of color. Brought to you by Families Organizing for Racial Justice (FORJ), the Newton Coalition of Black Residents, the Newton Indigenous Peoples Day Committee, CAN-DO, Newton Youth Success Collaborative, the Harmony Foundation, Newton Upstanders, and the Newton Human Rights Commission. 

Take Action

Support Our Values 

We are strongest when we act together for diversity, equity, and inclusion in our community. If you agree with our value statement, please add your name to our list of signatories. We are at 201 names and counting! 

News

MASSACHUSETTS

The report indicates the rise in hate and extremism in Massachusetts has been driven by antisemitic attacks, white supremacist propaganda and anti-LGBTQ+ threats and harassment.


— WBUR, 4.23.23
NEWTON

Hundreds turn out to stand in support of Newton's LGBTQIA+ community.


NBC10 Boston, 4.14.23
NEWTON

Globe columnist Yvonne Abraham gives a shout out to Newton North High School and Principal Henry Turner for academic excellence and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.


Boston Globe, 4.12.23
NEWTON

Angela Pitter and Natasha Warikoo of Newton, MA discuss national efforts to undermine diversity and equity efforts in the city. 


CityLine, 4.9.23