Youngstown's Jewish Community Center joined a nationwide effort Friday to "Chalk over Hate."

This movement is designed to teach children to spread love and kindness to stop anti-semitism, as well as racially or religiously motivated attacks.

Children spent the day depicting something with chalk that reminds them of peace, love and happiness.

The JCC was asked to join by the national organization "Artists 4 Israel" to address all forms of hate, especially antisemitism. 

"The goal is to supersede how many acts of antisemitism vandalism was done," JCC Arts & Culture Director Barbara Wilson said,
"So last year in 2021, there were 853 acts of antisemitic vandalism here in the United States."

Sunshine, hearts, rainbows, animals and uplifting messages now cover the pavilion blacktop of the Jewish Community Center.

"We want the kids to see how much love is out there and how much acceptance is out there and that even at a young age they can be a part of it," Wilson said. 

It wasn't just the kids taking part either.

Many different community organizations joined in with a total of 172 participants showcasing their art.