We all know the essence of resilience—a quality that allows individuals and communities to endure challenges and emerge stronger. Yet, its meaning resonates differently for everyone, shaped by their unique journeys, struggles, and victories. Recently, we had the honor of hosting a memorable evening where resilience took center stage, as shared by a group of extraordinary individuals committed to uplifting their communities.
Our speakers included a diverse lineup of leaders whose work spans multiple dimensions of social impact. Each of their stories added another layer to the evening’s depth:
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- Comrade Cav, a dancer, DJ, and creative force, shared his journey from co-founding groundbreaking collectives in the UK to becoming a fixture in Brooklyn’s cultural scene. Cav’s decades-long dedication to music and community activism reflects the resilience required to innovate while staying true to one’s roots.
- Jenn Chen, founder of Brooklyn FAM, spoke passionately about bridging divides through art and fostering empathic connections in an increasingly fragmented world. Her work proves the transformative power of creativity in uniting communities.
- Azeez O. Alimi, Community Liaison at KAVI, highlighted the importance of equity and mentorship in youth development. His commitment to fostering connections between students and opportunities embodies resilience as a tool for empowerment.
- Luisa de Miranda, a grassroots organizer and creative technologist, discussed her work with Worth Fighting For NYC. Her fight for civil rights and democracy reminded us that resilience is an act of defiance against systemic injustice.
- Darnell Benoit, founder of Flanbwayan Haitian Literacy Project, shared her journey of advocating for immigrant education. Her story exemplifies resilience as the determination to fill systemic gaps with solutions that transform lives.
- Imani Keith Henry, founder of Equality for Flatbush, brought the room to its feet with his passionate advocacy for racial justice, anti-gentrification efforts, and LGBTQ+ rights. Imani’s work highlights resilience as a force that dismantles oppression and creates space for all.
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As the evening unfolded, we felt an overwhelming sense of unity in our quest for community and resilience. The audience—friends, neighbors, and newcomers—came not just to listen but to connect, share, and envision a future where these values thrive. Chicava Honeychild of DuYe Moves described the evening as “fortifying,” a perfect word to encapsulate the shared energy of those gathered.
With tolerance, immigrant rights, queer respect, social justice, and access to public spaces as the evening’s thematic pillars, we came together to celebrate a collective commitment to protecting what matters most—our people, our rights, our identities.
One of the most captivating moments came from Palestinian organizer and composer Nahed Elrayes. His improvisational musical performance, inspired by the evening’s theme of resilience, left us speechless. His artistry was a reminder that resilience is not just a concept but a lived experience—one that can inspire movements and bring people together.
Spaces like these remind us that, even in uncertain times, we have the power to protect what matters most: housing, health, education, and the right to be heard. We are grateful to everyone who attended, participated, and shared their energy with us. Together, we strengthen our bonds, protect our rights, and build a future rooted in justice and equity.
Stay tuned as we share videos of these organizers’ incredible stories. Let their words and actions inspire you to join us in this ongoing journey. Because resilience isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving, together.
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