A weekend gala is set to raise funds for a mutual aid initiative supporting the Black community in Newfoundland and Labrador, inspired by Black History Month, according to Kassie Drodge, a director at the province’s Social Justice Co-Operative.
The event, named Roots and Rhythms: A Black Mutual Aid Gala, will take place on Sunday to celebrate and show solidarity with the Black community in the region by aiming to alleviate the financial burden through a mutual aid fund.
Director Kassie Drodge mentioned that the Black community usually relies on its own resources to amplify their voices, and the mutual fund seeks to ease some of that burden.
The gala, commencing at 4 p.m. at 30 Harvey Rd, intends to collect funds to support Black community members with various individual expenses and advocacy assistance.
Drodge emphasized the importance of financial solidarity and mutual aid in community organizing, highlighting the need for such support within the Black community.
Noting the increasing diversity in the province, Drodge expressed joy in witnessing the growth and learning from the various cultural experiences.
She also shared her personal journey of discovering her own history and identity, underscoring the significance of mutual support and understanding.
Roots and Rhythms: A Black Mutual Aid Gala is happening Sunday in St. John’s. Organizer Kassie Drodge says the money raised will establish a fund to support any issues or concerns of the Black communities. Drodge and musician Helena Elueme spoke with CBC’s Weekend AM host and producer Heather Barrett.
The gala will feature live music performances, including a set by Helena Elueme, a musician associated with a group called A Band Called Sam, who moved to Newfoundland in 2017.
Elueme expressed a mix of experiences in Newfoundland but emphasized the welcoming nature of the community and the thriving Afrobeat scene that reminds her of home.
Organizer Drodge and Elueme connected at an Afro Arts Festival recently, leading to Elueme’s invite to perform at the gala.
Attendees can look forward to tasting Nigerian cuisine like jollof rice at the event, immersing themselves in a different culture while contributing to the Black mutual aid fund.
The event seeks to promote understanding, support, and cultural exchange within the Newfoundland and Labrador community.
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