I am part of this community. I grew up in this community…Everything that they [The African People’s Education and Defense Fund] bring into this community beautifies this community and helps us in ways that the city refuses to do.”
Karen, Business Owner
“My husband and I truly enjoy and appreciate the opportunities to financially contribute to the African People’s Defense Fund and Uhuru, because of their exceptional work to lift up the lives of so many neglected communities. Their emphasis is on helping to bring Black communities and individuals to the table of life, where they have been shut out by historic and current governmental and societal practices. This organization is phenomenally successful and their many projects are tangible, life changing structures in some of the most disenfranchised areas of the U.S. Chuck and I cannot participate in person to help restore justice, hope and hands-on help to people, but we can give from our hearts as a form of reparations to the Black community.
Kristi & Chuck, Donors
“It [the Gary Brooks Community Garden] is important to the black community specifically because not everybody can afford to go to the grocery store, there may not be a store in your vicinity. Less reliance on things outside the community, to rely on each other more..this is one of the beautiful things about this movement –100% of the efforts go directly to the community…its really amazing what is happening here.
Jalen, Garden Volunteer
“I discovered this [Black Power Blueprint] through the Ervin Scholars program at Wash U. I love volunteering because I love to be surrounded by a community who loves helping and giving back to others. This makes me feel so welcome to be a part of something like this. And gardening is so therapeutic to do. I love this!!!!
Olivia, Garden Volunteer Wash U. Ervin Scholar
“We’re planting to have some type of color in the garden all year long, including winter. We’ll have plants to attract hummingbirds, bees and butterflies. We will have vegetables, for the people. We’ve got a lot of work to do yet, but we’re creating a destination in North St. Louis. People will come from all over to see it. ”
Mr. Gary Brooks, Black Power Community Garden Coordinator Nov. 16. 1944-Nov. 26, 2024
“I understand from the Uhuru Movement that there can be no real self-determination for African people, nor real independence, without the economic sovereignty and community control exemplified in the property, land and infrastructure of the Black Power Blueprint. I gladly give material support, a form of reparations.”
David , Donor
“The Black Power Blueprint is the only way forward. It helps me with my responsibility to my students, to make sure the work they do is not in vain—that they have a future and can flourish.”
Connor , St. Louis teacher and Black Power Blueprint donor
“Everyone else keeps saying what they are going to do. You came here and just did it. We are excited about what you have already done and how you are helping the community.”
Tim, Owner Coney Cleaning Service, refurbished Uhuru House hardwood floors
“Project after project, this organization is working and grinding, and I’m just happy to be part of it. The heat didn’t stop us from cleaning the area for the future market and garden. It gives me a sense of purpose to be part of helping our people.”
Isoke, North St. Louis resident, teacher and Black Power Blueprint volunteer
“We found Akwaaba Hall—just what we were looking for! 10 out of 10—no 12 out of 10! This is the place to come for a venue, because it’s even more than what you expect.”
Tammy and Troy, Rented Akwaaba Hall for their wedding
