Black August is a month-long commemoration of the Black liberation struggle that honors political prisoners and all those who have sacrificed for Black freedom. It emerged from California’s prison system in the 1970s following the death of Black Panther and political prisoner George Jackson, and in honor of his brother, Jonathan Jackson.

Black August is not only about remembrance. It is also about continuing the legacy of the freedom fighters who came before us and working to dismantle the oppressive systems they fought against.

Black August in the Park is rooted in this tradition. While honoring its legacy, we also look toward new tools and new possibilities for carrying this work forward. We ask how we can build upon what these freedom fighters taught us and continue that work today by inspiring Black people to engage in social and cultural change.

We invite you to observe Black August by committing to its four core principles: study, fast, train, and fight. Then join us at Black August in the Park as we learn, reflect, and celebrate us.