On February 23, 2024, San Julian Park was transformed into a vibrant hub of culture and community strength as the United Coalition East Prevention Project (UCEPP) hosted its 24th Annual Skid Row Black History Month Celebration, with the theme “Resisting, Protecting, and Healing Through Art.” This powerful testament to our commitment to wellness, resilience, and social justice was brought to life through a collaborative effort with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks and other key organizations. The event aimed to provide unwavering support to the community, particularly addressing the ongoing overdose crisis. This highlights our collective strength and determination to make a lasting positive impact in the heart of Los Angeles.
The event was a transformative experience, providing attendees with a wide range of services aimed at uplifting, educating, and empowering them. Comprehensive and inclusive offerings included legal advice, healthcare information, CPR training, naloxone kits, housing assistance, art workshops, advocacy opportunities, library cards, and HIV self-test kits, benefiting over 200 individuals with resources to significantly impact their lives. A highlight was the provision of hot meals by Chef Marilyn, which added a comforting sense of community. This, combined with the generous sharing of resources by key organizations such as LA County DPH, JWCH, LA Public Library, Doodles Without Borders, LA CAN, the Skid Row Community Improvement Coalition, LAHSA, and the LA City Attorney’s Office, deeply stressed the event’s focus on community support and solidarity.
The celebration was brought to life with musical performances that resonated with the theme of healing through culture. The talents of Jamael Dean, Deejha Marie, Ray Lewis and Ase Ase Drummers, Rickie Byars, Unakal Bean, King Zayid, Pancake, Charles Porter, and Christopher Mack were enjoyed by all. Their talents transcended mere entertainment, embodying the healing power of culture and the arts, and underscored the importance of community connection, creativity, and expression in building resilience and fostering neighborhood wellness and safety. This showcase of musical brilliance not only enriched the event but also deeply resonated with UCEPP’s mission to harness cultural healing as a pivotal element in overcoming challenges.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all partners and participants who played a pivotal role in the profound impact of this year’s Skid Row Black History Month Celebration, a vibrant demonstration of Black history, culture, and community resilience. This event emphasized the strength found in unity, as well as the transformative power of art in healing and advocacy, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience. It showcased what can be achieved when we come together in support of wellness, justice, and community strength. As we reflect on the success of the event, we are inspired to continue our collective efforts to resist, protect, and heal.
