Disability Justice Culture Club joined in coalition with the Reclaim Our Power Utility Justice Campaign for a powerful in-person gathering in Huichin (Richmond), on unceded Confederated Villages of Lisjan (Ohlone) land. This Coalition Kickback and Art Build was so well produced and fun. Calling Up Justice was excited to participate after reconnecting with ROP organizers at the Disability Is Beloved Community event. Claudia and Jesenia attended alongside Jay and Patrice from DJCC, strengthening our shared DJ1 Crip Resilience Hub presence and commitment to utility justice and collective transformation in California.

Hosted at Bridge Storage Arts and Events by longtime arts organizer and printmaker David Solnit, the day centered art, culture, and movement-building. The gathering included a decolonized opening, education sessions, group ideation, and hands-on sign making and painting. We connected with many local community groups and organizers, learning about ongoing climate, racial, and food justice projects and exchanging ideas for future collaboration.

The event modeled deep care and accessibility: the space was fully wheelchair accessible, Spanish and ASL interpretation and childcare were available, and strong COVID safety practices were in place, including rapid testing, required masking indoors, HEPA filters, and outdoor gathering space. The food from Palm Halal Food Market in Richmond was a highlight — especially the truly magnificent baba ghanoush!

We left feeling more connected to the local justice ecosystem, energized with new ideas for future events to produce, and more bonded as a DJCC cohort. We’re grateful to be rooted, rising, and reclaiming our power together — plus, free t-shirts never hurt!