Join us in a city near you!
In April 2014 a courageous Afro-Colombian community took a stand against the illegal armed groups that controlled their daily lives for over 15 years and transformed their neighborhood into a peace zone. The same year, the Movement for Black Lives ignited in the United States, vividly drawing national attention to an epidemic of state violence against Black communities.
This November, FOR Peace Presence and FOR-USA have organized a six-city tour to bring Black community leaders from Colombia and the U.S. together for critical discussions. While governments in both countries invest in war and militarization and prioritize economic development, Black communities are demanding respect for their lives, spaces, and rights. Bridging the Americas is bringing voices of activists together to explore these incredibly timely issues.
Come, listen, learn, and help to discern next steps toward meaningful action!
FEATURED SPEAKERS:
Willian Mina—Youth leader at the Puente Nayero Humanitarian Space, Colombia
Willian is a sociology student at the University of the Pacific, working with children, teenagers and youth on issues of peace building and the appropriation of territories through the cultural practices of dance, traditional music from the Colombian pacific coast and traditional games.
Anthony Grimes— Director of Campaigns and Strategies at FOR-USA.
Anthony is a writer, photographer/filmmaker, human rights activist, pastor and theologian. Anthony roots himself in the tradition of the black-led, prophetic, freedom movement, while building new democratic and artistic possibilities.
Nhora Isabel “Chava” Castillo Panameño—Leader at the Puente Nayero Humanitarian Space, Colombia
A mother of three and founding leader of the Puente Nayero Humanitarian Space, Chava graduated high school and is beginning her studies in sociology at the University of the Pacific in Buenaventura. She says, “my leadership comes from my family who’ve been involved in… My father has been a natural leader for over 40 years…”
Follow the tour on Facebook!
Please stay tuned to the FOR Peace Presence website and keep an eye out for email invitations pertinent to your location with further details about engagements and events in each city. Also, stay tuned for details about a national conference call with the speakers for those of you unable to attend an event.
We so hope that you can join us to engage with these powerful leaders about connecting the Movement for Black Lives across the Americas.
