East Palo Alto, CA — On Wednesday, August 28, the East Palo Alto (EPA) community will gather for a significant event dedicated to commemorating Black August, a time to honor Black freedom fighters, particularly those who have been incarcerated. The event, taking place at 550 Bell Street from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, is much more than a remembrance; it is a day of community healing, reflection, and empowerment.
Black August has historically been a month of reverence for the sacrifices made by Black freedom fighters and a period of learning, resistance, and consciousness-raising. This event, titled “Black August EPA: A Community Healing Event,” seeks to recognize the critical contributions of these freedom fighters towards the abolition and resistance against systemic oppression, especially within the prison system.
What to Expect
The event promises a variety of activities designed to support, educate, and entertain the community. Among the key offerings:
- Food, Fun, and a Kidzone: Families are encouraged to bring their children, with activities tailored to engage the younger attendees.
- Performances: Local artists will present performances that reflect the spirit of Black August, using art as a tool for resistance and healing.
- Brake Light Clinic: In collaboration with local organizations, there will be a clinic to repair brake lights free of charge—a small but meaningful effort to reduce the risk of traffic stops that disproportionately affect communities of color.
- Participatory Defense: Workshops will be available to educate attendees on how to engage in participatory defense, empowering community members to advocate for themselves and their loved ones within the criminal justice system.
- Warrant Assistance and Expungements: Legal aid will be provided for those needing assistance with warrants and expungements, an essential step for many in reclaiming their lives after interactions with the legal system.
- Youth Justice and Post-Conviction Relief: Resources and support for youth and those seeking post-conviction relief will be available, focusing on pathways to a brighter future.
A Collaborative Effort
This event is made possible through the collaboration of various community organizations, including Root & Rebound, EPA Reparations, All of Us or None, and many others dedicated to justice and community empowerment. The initiative reflects a deep commitment to healing and justice, addressing the needs of those who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.
The Araminta Ross Foundation: Behind the Wall Program
In conjunction with the Black August event, The Araminta Ross Foundation’s “Prison to Productivity” program will be highlighted. This trauma-informed curriculum is designed for incarcerated individuals nearing their release date, equipping them with essential skills for a successful re-entry into society. The program’s focus on mindfulness-based techniques and dialectical behavior skills aligns perfectly with the themes of healing and empowerment that underscore Black August.
The program addresses key issues contributing to incarceration, such as the lasting impacts of early childhood trauma and intergenerational cycles of abuse. It provides comprehensive support, including job readiness, social and emotional support, and financial literacy, all crucial for reintegration.
A Day of Healing and Reflection
As the community of East Palo Alto comes together to honor Black August, this event serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of solidarity, education, and proactive engagement in the ongoing struggle against systemic oppression. The organizers invite everyone to participate, learn, and contribute to this significant day of reflection and healing.
For more information about the event and how you can get involved, please visit The Araminta Ross Foundation or contact the organizers directly.
About Black August
Black August originated in the 1970s as a time to commemorate fallen freedom fighters, particularly those who resisted from within the confines of the prison system. It is a time of sober reflection, study, and remembrance, with a focus on the struggles and sacrifices made in the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
Contact Information
Event Location:
550 Bell St, East Palo Alto, CA 94303
Date and Time:
Wednesday, August 28
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
For More Information:
Visit The Araminta Ross Foundation
Email: contact@aramintarossfoundation.org
Phone: (650) 123-4567
This community healing event is an opportunity to stand together, uplift one another, and continue the fight for justice that Black August represents. Join us in commemorating the past while building a stronger, more just future.