What is Black August?
Black August is a month of remembrance, study, discipline, and reflection that honors Black freedom fighters, political prisoners, and those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Black liberation. Originating in California prisons during the late 1970s, it has grown into an international observance focused on education, self-determination, and community empowerment.
Why is it important?
Black August preserves the history of resistance and reminds us of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and justice. It encourages political education, personal discipline, community responsibility, and a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggle for liberation, self-determination, and collective progress.
What does it commemorate?
Black August commemorates the lives and contributions of Black revolutionaries, freedom fighters, and political prisoners, including George Jackson, Jonathan Jackson, Khatari Gaulden, James McClain, William Christmas, and many others. It also honors the countless known and unknown individuals who dedicated their lives to the fight for freedom, justice, and human dignity.
Honoring Our Ancestors & Freedom Fighters
These names hold special significance, and Black August also honors the countless known and unknown freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice, and commitment continue to inspire us.
Black August Principles
_edited.png)
Learn the history, ideas, and struggles that shape Black liberation.
Practice self-control, accountability and commitment to purpose.
Strengthen the body and mind through consistent training and preparation.
Observe sacrifice and reflection through the practice of fasting.
Develop a deeper understanding of liberation, justice, and systems of power.
Build solidarity through collective responsibility and shared purpose.
Continue the fight against oppression through action and self-determination.
Honor the sacrifices and legacies of freedom fighters and political prisoners.
About This Event
Black August
Hosted by Spark the Mind, the event's purpose is to connect the prison movement with the outside world. To promote Black wellness as revolutionary practice by promoting holistic wellness, self-love, unity, and healing within the Black community while creating an immersive space for education, culture, and connection.
Vision & Objectives
The primary objectives are to educate the public about Black August; to center Black wellness as resistance and restoration, create economic opportunities for Black vendors and practitioners, foster unity across mental, spiritual, physical wellness and position Spark the Mind as a trusted community convener. Secondary objectives include increasing organizational visibility, building sponsor and partner relationships.
Three-Day Black August Program Overview
Day One: Self-Love & Healing as Resistance
Day One focuses on self-love and healing as acts of resistance. It will include education on the origins and importance of Black August discussing the impacts of incarceration on mental health; mental health workshops, trauma informed conversations, meditation, sound baths, healing arts, and a keynote on Black self-worth and restoration.
Day Two: Love, Unity & Collective Healing
Day Two will center on Love and Unity and will give special tribute to George Jackson and Assata Shakur. It will discuss interpersonal relationships and include panels on community accountability, and collective healing as well as cultural performances.
Day Three: Power, Legacy & Sustainability
Day Three will emphasize Power, Legacy, & Sustainability with economic wellness, collective work and responsibility, politcal education, Black legacy and future building conversations, and a closing ceremony and call to action.
This Black August gathering brings together those incarcerated, community members, educators, artists, entrepreneurs, organizations, and families for 3 days of education, fellowship, culture, and community empowerment.
-
Guest Speakers
-
Black-Owned Vendors
-
Educational Workshops
-
Cultural Performances
-
Community Resources
-
Networking Opportunities
-
Food and Fellowship
-
Activities for Youth & Families
Join Us This Black August
