The Annual BOSS Black August Block Party commemorates and celebrates culture, history, and activism, serving as a testament to the power of community and resilience.
Commemorating Black August
Black August is a month-long celebration and awareness campaign that began in 1979 to honor Black freedom fighters, revolutionaries, radicals, and political prisoners. It originated in the California penal system to commemorate the lives of fallen freedom fighters, including Jonathan P. Jackson, George Jackson, William Christmas, James McClain, and Khatari Gaulden.
The first Black August was celebrated by members of the Black Guerilla Family in San Quentin State Prison to mark the deaths of brothers Jonathan and George Jackson, who died in prison on August 7, 1970 and August 21, 1971, respectively.
BOSS Bay Area Black August Block Party
At our Annual Black August Block Party, the community celebrates Black culture and promotes social and political awareness. This event serves as a powerful platform for community building, education, and empowerment - it embodies BOSS's commitment to creating supportive environments where individuals can thrive.
Celebrations include learning the history of revolutionary leaders, studying predecessors' ways, and participating in events. The commemoration also encourages people to consider internalized oppression that leads to anti-Black behaviors and how recognizing these behaviors can help to address and mitigate them.
Recognizing the transformative power of artistic expression in promoting self-sufficiency, art plays a central role at the Black August Block Party -- a means of storytelling and cultural representation. Visual artists, musicians, dancers, and poets showcase their talents at the block party, infusing the event with creativity and inspiration.
These artistic expressions celebrate Black culture and inspire attendees to embrace their own unique talents and creative potential on their journey towards self-sufficiency.
The Pillars of BOSS' Black August
The Black August Block Party's bedrock is art, culture, political education, and economics.
These elements are fundamental to the celebration and pivotal in fostering a community that thrives on mutual support and collective growth. Political education sessions are designed to inform and empower participants about the ongoing struggles for justice and equity. At the same time, the cultural displays honor the rich heritage and contributions of Black individuals throughout history.
Economic empowerment is another critical aspect of the event. Through the Black Market, a space dedicated to Black-owned vendors, the Block Party addresses economic disparities by providing a platform for small businesses to thrive.
This marketplace boosts local economies and encourages community members to invest in and support Black entrepreneurship, thus combating poverty and fostering economic resilience.
Call to Action
Join us in our unwavering commitment to creating a community that embodies ownership, safety, and belonging.
Donate, Volunteer, and attend Black August!
Thank you for your continued support and belief in the work we do!
BOSS programs are innovative, based on evidence-based practices and proven methodologies, and emphasize lived experience: across BOSS, over 50% of staff (80% in reentry programs) have personal experience with the same issues current participants face.
Visit our donation page to see how you can continue being of service and help BOSS Bay Area remain one of today's most recognized leaders in social justice, housing, reentry, violence prevention, and innovative service delivery methodologies.
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