Arts Against Violence: A three-day cultural event empowering youth through the arts
April 11, 2025
Eleven Services, LLC and Strut Talk Runway Therapy, in collaboration with the City of Columbia Parks & Recreation, United Way, The Weight of Words, and V12 Studios, announced Arts Against Violence, a transformative cultural arts event aimed at addressing youth violence through creative expression. The event will take place from May 1 to May 3, 2025, during National Youth Violence Prevention Week.
Arts Against Violence will bring together artists, activists, educators, and community leaders to provide a safe space for young people to express themselves, heal, and envision a brighter future. Through a series of workshops, performances, and interactive activities, the event will highlight the power of the arts to foster resilience, understanding, and hope.
Event Highlights:
May 1, 2025 (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Katheryn M. Bellfied Booker Washington Heights Cultural Arts Center, 2611 Grant St):
The Weight of Words Workshop: Youth will create artistic masks and share stories about youth violence and their dreams for their communities.
Musical Artistry Workshop: Participants will explore songwriting, hip-hop, and other genres to address anger, trauma, and frustration.
Strut Runway Talk Therapy Workshop: Using runway walking as a form of empowerment, participants will learn how body language communicates strength and resilience, culminating in a tribute walk honoring those lost to gun violence.
The Art of Movement: Transforming emotion into empowerment through dance, music, and holistic expression.
May 2, 2025 (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, United Way, 1818 Blanding St.):
The Art of Resiliency: A community conversation about the importance of arts in schools and the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). This session will bring together students, artists, and youth-serving organizations to discuss restoring art access, deterring truancy, and reducing youth exposure to violence.
May 3, 2025 (1:00PM- 6:00PM, Katheryn M. Bellfied Booker Washington Heights Cultural Arts Center, 2611 Grant St):
Art Showcase: A vibrant celebration of visual arts, performances, and interactive workshops, showcasing the transformative role of creativity in combating youth violence.
How to Get Involved:
Attend: The event is free and open to the public; however, registration is required. Families, educators, and community members are encouraged to join.
Sponsor: Local businesses and organizations can support the event by becoming sponsors.
