In 2020 I started a local grassroots organization called The People’s Collective for Change, in hopes of tackling racial injustices and other inequities that exist in our community. In partnership with Rainbow Action Network we were able to have Napa’s City Council unanimously pass a resolution declaring Racism as a Public Health Crisis in Napa, while also bringing joy to our community by hosting the first ever Juneteenth celebration.

Juneteenth, short for “June Nineteenth,” marks the day when federal troops arrived in Texas to ensure that all enslaved people be freed. Their arrival came 2.5 years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, marking the official end to slavery in the United States. It is vital for our remembrance of history to be truthful and accurate, and I look forward to continuing the work necessary to bring equity and equality for all members of our community. This year PCC will host its second annual Juneteenth celebration at Fuller Park from 12pm – 3pm and excited for all to come out, celebrate #blackexcellence, freedom for all, and highlight black lives matter. Thank you to the members of our community who assisted with putting together this beautiful video in honor of Juneteenth and the ongoing fight towards racial justice and true freedom/ equality for all.