Our February BRAVE Communities Connections was everything! We are so grateful to the community that came out to honor and celebrate Black joy and resilience with us. Our program started with a powerful poem by award-winning poet and author, KB Brookins. Followed by our guest of honor, Reverend Fred Dixon, who spoke truth to power about his lived experiences – addressing Austin’s policies and paving the way for Black organizations and communities to have a voice in Austin and beyond since the 1970s.
There were continuous snaps, cheers and praises as Black joy panelists Fabien Barkwell, KB Brookins, and Meme Styles answered 16 y.o. BRAVE Young Leader, Ally Owens moderated questions with passion and poise. Fabien emphasized the importance of recognizing Black joy, highlighting that it’s essential to acknowledge because the full range of Black experiences has often been overlooked or silenced. Meme encouraged the audience and allies of Black joy to know the history and the data. KB shared their plight of a Black transgender, living in Texas, and concluded the program with another soulful poem reading.
After refreshments, catered by Pam’s Way Kitchen, a Black, woman-owned local business, the audience battled it out for our first ever BRAVE Communities Uno Tournament. Congratulations to Ty for taking home the trophy, Alamo Drafthouse gift card and other Black joy goodies!
Special thanks to Greater Mt. Zion Church for being the host venue; and sponsors CDC Foundation, Hogg Foundation, and City of Austin’s Cultural Arts Division.
