Celebrating Resilience and Community
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to sit down with Kat, our Executive Director, to debrief about our September 9th Groundbreaking Block Party. In the weeks leading up to the event, we found ourselves juggling the planning of this celebration with the sobering news surrounding the city's measures to perpetuate its violent war on poverty.
It was a stark contrast, going from discussing Systemic Change Director Lauren Armony's testimony on the substance ban before the city council to organizing a massive celebration.
During our conversation, Kat reminded me of something crucial, something we sometimes tend to overlook: the profound notion that joy and celebration can, in fact, serve as a powerful form of protest and resistance.
Joy creates unity, fostering a synchrony that generates a profound sense of community, often on a subconscious level. This unity is particularly significant in the face of people in power, who wield scarcity and fear as instruments of control. Joy, in contrast, is something that cannot be measured.
For a brief moment, the city's camping ban and the hostile rhetoric directed at our neighbors on the streets took a temporary backseat.
The event last Saturday was more than just a party. It symbolized our unwavering commitment to staying rooted in this community.
We are fully aware that not all our neighbors share the same enthusiasm for Sisters' presence in Old Town – much less for our new home at the heart of the neighborhood.
That's why we are immensely grateful to all who joined us in our celebration. It surpassed all our expectations, and we owe our success to each and every one of you who showed up. Thank you for your donations and votes of confidence.
A special thanks to the sensational Poison Waters for emceeing the show, and to DJ Leo de la Cerda, whose DJ skills kept the energy alive all evening.
A round of applause to local drag performers and queer artists: BinKyee Bellflower, Pluto, Cruz Daniels, and Jeremy Grice, who lit up the crowd with smiles, singing, dancing, and warm embraces.
Additionally, we'd like to express our gratitude to the incredible organizations that partnered with us: Meals on Us, Milk Crate Kitchen, Ground Score Association, FinAbility, Street Roots, Rose Haven, and the G.O.T.O Truck. The value of your presence is beyond measure.
Lastly, a heartfelt thank-you to Beneficial State Bank and Pearl Legal Group for helping us make this event a success.
As we look ahead, we recognize the challenges awaiting us. Over the next two years, we will be renovating our new space and steadfastly opposing unjust city policies.
But you have our word that we will stay committed to our goals, and remain an integral part of this community alongside each and every one of you.
