A student led event with poetry, prison letter writing and panelists to speak about policing and abolition. It is an event to advocate for black and brown youth facing criminalization , police brutality and restorative justice.
Panelists and Participants will include;
Michelle and Ashley Monterrosa (Panelists)
Michelle and Ashley Monterrosa are Sean Monterrosa sisters. Sean Monterrosa was shot and killed by Detective Jarrett Tonn (who was part of Vallejo PD) while protesting the police murder of George Floyd in 2020. The Monterrosa sisters began advocating for the justice of their brother and other families who have suffered police brutality. His family continues to spread awareness about Sean and police brutality in the bay area – they host events, protests, unite with other victims’ families and they created the Sean Monterrosa Project. Michelle recently had gone to the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention to address gun violence in Latino communities. Ashley is a board director at the California Endowments Board. Their resilience stands strong to this day.
CURYJ is a non-profit org that helps youth dream beyond bars. Their goal is to end youth criminalization and mass incarceration by leading programs for youth to be involved such as community garden, murals, cultural celebrations and more. They also teach ethnic studies, facilitate restorative justice circles, and share cultural healing practices. They will be sending someone over to talk about the work they do to end youth criminalization and the importance of community organizing.
SF Solidarity Collective (Prison Letter Writing)
Community Works (Holiday Donation Drive) Community Works is a non-profit organization that focuses on meeting the needs of people who are in the justice system. They have over 25 years of experience in implementing restorative justice programs. They will be helping us facilitate a holiday donation drive for children whose families are incarcerated. They gave us a list of hygiene products, feminine products, school supplies and clothing.
Los Bayuncos (Catering) Los Bayuncos are a family-owned Salvadoran restaurant/business. They will be catering for our event outside of the bookstore. They serve pupusas, putacos and other delicious Salvadoran dishes.