In a continued effort to confront racism in the Centre Region, State College School Superintendent Seldon V. Whitaker Jr. has asked community members to wear or display yellow ribbons to show their support.

"The current situation provides people of goodwill in our community with an opportunity to publicly affirm their dedication to cultivating a welcoming and supportive climate here in State College," Whitaker said in a presentation made yesterday at the school district's headquarters, 131 W. Nittany Ave.

The idea of wearing and displaying the yellow ribbons was originated by community residents Sylvia Apple and Nancy Harrison. Apple said she hoped University students will also take part in the initiative.

"We're hoping groups and clubs could make enough for their own organizations and pass the rest out around campus," Apple said.

"I have (also) directed the school district's Equal Educational Opportunity Adviory Committee to conduct a thorough assessment of the climate for minority students and their families within our K-12 public school community," Whitaker said regarding the district effort against racism.

State College Mayor Arnold Addison said he was pleased the community leadership responded so quickly to recent racial incidents.

"We are fighting racial bigots that infest this and other communities. The citizens need the opportunity to express their own viewpoints," Addison said.

Several racial incidents during recent days prompted members of the University's black community to demonstrate against what they call an unfriendly climate toward minorities.

Borough Manager Peter S. Marshall said the ribbons would be a good way to show that State College embraces diversity and rejects discrimination and bigotry.

"This visual sign is a creative way to let people know where we stand," Marshall said.