I have been volunteering with BAGRC since 2015– TEN whole years! This longevity is due to firsthand witnessing and experiencing its incredible liberatory nature for our community. Rock camp embodies it’s mission more beautifully than I’ve seen any other nonprofit do up-close. Staff operates non-hierarchically, and prioritizes queer folks, women and gender-expansive black, brown, indigenous folks from Oakland. The youth are centered in a way that respects their autonomy, honors their knowledge and lived experiences, and provides mentorship and workshops to further cultivate their power and creativity. And it’s really fun and rocks!

As Board President, I am urging you to support this crucial youth arts program during a national reduction in education grant funding and a political climate that is targeting communities of color, migrants, women, queer and trans communities. We are experiencing urgent financial instability brought on by these cuts, and need to continue to be a safe harbor for girls and gender expansive youth.

Thank you for your dedication to this beautiful community! We couldn’t do it without you 💕