Austin Justice Coalition

Black Art Matters - Homecoming Melodies: Embracing Kin, Connection, and Liberation: As Black Art Matters(BAM) evolves year after year in 2023, we celebrated the rich tapestry of family, community, kinship, and the inspiring journey towards Black liberation. At the heart of this event was the artist's expression, a vital force that helped us encapsulate the essence of our theme. We delved deep into the creative and childlike aspects within ourselves, shaping spaces that offer solace and warmth to all who enter. "Homecoming Melodies" a tribute to the bonds formed through kinship, inviting you to envision your life's journey as if today were a joyous "Homecoming. " What does this culture and community look like to you? How do we honor the autonomy of each individual while nurturing deliberate care for our loved ones, neighbors, and fellow community members? These are the questions we explored and celebrated together at BAM '23. Over 15 artists were featured, and over 200 Austin community members attended. We embarked on a journey of self-discovery, connection, and collective liberation. Radical Advocates Academy: This program trained 9 aspiring advocates, from young adults to elders, on how to organize and manage policy campaigns rooted in anti-racist values with the intent to enhance the advocacy capacity and effectiveness of AJC and the community overall. The year-long, paid training program certified a small group of aspiring advocates to organize for change the AJC way. Participants received political education, skills training, leadership opportunities, direct organizing, and advocacy experience during the legislative session via ongoing AJC projects. Advocates were paid a $1,000 stipend monthly for their participation in RAA. Program highlights include: Participants collaborated on numerous successful advocacy campaigns at the Texas legislature, assisting in the passage of important legislation related to maternal health and affordable housing and the defeat of legislation aimed at increasing police impunity and worsening discrimination at Texas public schools. Participants spoke effectively at City Council and Texas Legislature hearings related to various issues. Black Food Week (BFW) is a dynamic celebration that spotlights and uplifts over 100 Black-owned restaurants, bars, clubs, and more. This initiative thrives as a digital campaign. The essence of BFW lies in encouraging patrons to patronize these restaurants. During BFW's vibrant span, participating businesses experience a surge in foot traffic and online engagement. The heightened visibility generated by the campaign translates into increased profits as eager diners flock to explore the diverse flavors and cultural richness Black-owned businesses offer. Notably, the influx of promotion serves as a catalyst for amplifying the presence of these establishments within the local and wider food scene. Beyond the tangible benefits of increased revenue and exposure, the intangible sense of unity and empowerment that soars throughout BFW holds profound significance. By patronizing Black-owned establishments during this period, community members actively contribute to the prosperity and sustainability of these businesses. In doing so, they play a pivotal role in fostering economic resilience and combating systemic inequalities within the food industry. Building Austin School Systems (BASS) is an AJC + community lead program that fuels transformative change within Austin's school systems. Our mission pulses with vitality as we courageously confront and dismantle racist policies and practices within the education systems. We commit ourselves to fostering environments where everyone not only survives but thrives. The purpose of the BASS Program is clear: to ignite a revolution of transformation within Austin's educational landscape. We refuse to accept a status quo where BIPOC students, families, and staff are anything less than flourishing. Our rallying cry echoes through the corridors of injustice, demanding police-free schools. We understand that true safety cannot be realized when our Black, Brown, differently-abled, immigrant, and LGBTQIA+ students are viewed through a lens of suspicion rather than as the cherished individuals they are. BASS aims to rewrite the narrative of education in Austin. One where we wield the power of collective action to shape a future where equity, inclusion, and dignity reign supreme. BASS isn't just a program; it's a movement, a force for positive change that refuses to be silenced. Together, let's build a brighter tomorrow for all who walk the halls of our schools. Program highlights Black History Bowl: 25 + youth participated in a game show style, Black History Bowl, where they studied Black History through a study guide created by AJC. Winners won scholarships ranging from $250 to $1000 to help with individual needs. Police Free Schools campaign launch and kick-off. Through this campaign, AJC has surveyed over 50 families in Austin about their views on school safety so far. Police Free Schools Convening: We gathered about 75 educators, caregivers, students, and community members passionate about police-free education. During the convening, we engaged in conversations around values, roles in the movement, police, and healing justice and formulated a community plan to put into action. Crisis Relief: In a testament to our unwavering commitment to the community, AJC continued to proudly extend over $20,000 in direct monetary support to those in need despite a dramatic decrease in revenue for us as an organization. As financial storms raged, threatening the stability of countless individuals and families, our program stood as a beacon of hope and solidarity. The impact of our support rippled through the community, alleviating the burdens of rent, childcare, food scarcity, medical bills, utilities, and more. For those grappling with the weight of financial hardship, our assistance was not merely a lifeline - it was a lifeline that buoyed spirits and restored faith in brighter days ahead.