On August 14th, 2024, the Southwest Organizing Project’s (SWOP) Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) team collaborated with La Michoacana and SGA Youth & Family Services to host the Second Annual Sawyer Block Party at Sawyer Elementary. This community event, held in the heart of Gage Park, was organized as a family-friendly celebration aimed at bringing together the Sawyer Elementary students and the broader Gage Park community. The day was filled with a variety of activities, creating an environment where residents could come together to enjoy one another’s company and strengthen community ties. The event offered numerous free activities, food, raffles, live music, and entertainment, ensuring that there was something for everyone.
A highlight of the block party was CP4P’s “Hoop, Don’t Shoot” basketball games, an initiative that aims to bring together youth from various neighborhoods for friendly basketball competitions. This program is a crucial part of CP4P’s mission to counteract violence by promoting unity, fun, and safe spaces for young people to connect and enjoy their time together. The basketball games served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact sports can have in fostering peace and camaraderie among youth, helping break down barriers between different communities.
In addition, the block party featured a graffiti battle, where artists from the community showcased their talents, creating vibrant murals that celebrated the spirit of Gage Park. The graffiti battle added a creative touch to the event, giving local artists a platform to express themselves and contribute to the celebration. Throughout the day, community members were encouraged to explore local services and organizations, visit booths set up by businesses, and interact with elected officials, further strengthening the sense of community and connection.
Overall, the Second Annual Sawyer Block Party was a resounding success, embodying CP4P’s mission to promote family-friendly activities and create safe spaces within the community. By bringing together diverse groups of residents, local organizations, and community leaders, the event fostered a strong sense of belonging and highlighted the positive impact of collective action in countering violence and promoting peace. It was a day of fun, connection, and community building, leaving attendees looking forward to next year’s celebration.
