Two fists raised in triumph &045;&045; one black, one white. Together they clutch a ribbon bearing a medal inscribed with one word &045;&045; unity. Bound by a single chain, the image represents both struggle and triumph.

Frank Hardy, director of the Selma Youth Development Center, unveiled the image at the Selma City Council’s Monday meeting as he introduced The Defiant Run.

According to Hardy, the run is a 13 mile race and obstacle course scheduled for Oct. 4, 2003. Participants of different races will run in pairs and be linked by a &uot;chain.&uot;

Hardy asked the council for its support and added that he wanted the event to be an annual run. Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. said the program was excellent and he urged the council to support it.

Hardy noted that the yearly event wouldn’t just be a run, but would also include a week of reconciliation seminars and team-building exercises prior to the half-marathon. Winners will receive a trophy, gift package and cash donation to the charity of their choice.

The Defiant Run has no political agenda, but instead was created under the premise that people accomplish more working together than apart, Hardy said.

According to an informational package on the run, the event won’t just affect participants, but will also serve to boost Selma’s economy and image.

More information on the event can be gained from DefiantRun@aol.com.