RSAA - Reparations Stakeholder Authority of Asheville

We couldn’t ask for a better team!

Evanston has paid out just over $5 million in reparations so far “The committee met in September to approve records regarding how the first round of reparations has been spent. Of the $5.03 million distributed to 141 people directly affected by unfair housing practices, which the program calls ancestors, and 71 people who are descendants of those who did, $1.36 million will be spent on home improvement projects, mortgage assistance, or be used in the down payment for a home. The remaining $3.69 million will be spent on direct cash benefits, with recipients eligible to receive a $25,000 check from the city of Evanston. Recipients will not need to pay taxes on the benefit, according to 2nd Ward Councilmember Krissie Harris.” https://lnkd.in/eUr_B-sV

The 2024 Sneaker Gala fundraiser for RSAA - Reparations Stakeholder Authority of Asheville was a joyful and blazing celebration this weekend in downtown Asheville NC. Thank you to everyone who attended in their sharp, colorful kicks, to our sponsors, of course to our members, and to our staff who worked so hard to make it all come together so beautifully. You can learn about RSAA and its good work at https://lnkd.in/eNzbVXid. Voting membership in RSAA is free and open only to Black adults in Asheville and Buncombe County. Non-Black people can support the reparative work as Space Shifters. Black people outside Asheville and Buncombe County can participate in these important efforts as Distance Disruptors. You can visit our website to make contributions directly to reparations in Asheville and Buncombe County NC or to support RSAA in its nonprofit operational capacity and work. #asheville #buncombecounty #reparations #reparativejustice #socialjustice #equity #equality #joy #celebration #fundraiser

“We’re trying to overcome 400 years—they take the shackles off, but our minds are still there,” said Buncombe County Commissioner Al Whitesides at our panel discussing reparations in Asheville and Buncombe County on Thursday night at the RSAA - Reparations Stakeholder Authority of Asheville member meeting. The meeting was well-attended in person and online. Our panelists included Brenda Mills remotely and Dr. Dwight Mullen and Commissioner Whitesides in person. Dr. Mullen said: “What we are fighting for is agency.” Black people in Asheville and Buncombe County: membership in RSAA is free and gives you voice and vote in reparative actions here. Visit https://lnkd.in/eCHSCj7Q to become a member. Non-Black residents and non-local Black individuals can support RSAA’s efforts as ShapeShifters and Distance Disruptors. Visit https://lnkd.in/exKS68_4 for all the info!

Happy Birthday to our amazing Executive Director, Torre Garrison! Your unwavering dedication, vision, and leadership have been instrumental in shaping RSAA into what it is today. Your commitment to our mission and the positive impact you’ve made in our community inspire us all. Thank you for your hard work, passion, and the countless hours you invest to ensure our success. We are truly grateful to have you leading our team. Wishing you a fantastic birthday filled with joy and celebration!

Join us for the RSAA Sneaker Gala on September 7, 2024 at 7pm. Experience an elegant and innovative evening as we kick off our fundraising campaign in a stylish setting. Don't miss out – reserve your tickets today! Visit Rsaasheville.org for more information.

Celebrating Black Music Month! June is Black Music Month, a time to honor and celebrate the incredible contributions of Black musicians, artists, and creators who have shaped and defined the world of music. From jazz to hip-hop, soul to R&B, and country to folk, Black music is the heartbeat of our culture and a testament to our community's talent and innovation. The origins of Black Music Month date back to 1979, when President Jimmy Carter first declared it a national celebration. Since then, we've continued to honor the rich legacy of Black music that has profoundly influenced and enriched the global musical landscape. From the soulful sounds of legends like Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye to the revolutionary beats of hip-hop pioneers like Grandmaster Flash and Run-D.M.C., and the soulful storytelling of country artists like Charley Pride and folk icons like Odetta, Black music has been at the forefront of cultural and social change. At RSAA, we recognize the power of music to inspire change, uplift spirits, and bring people together. This month, let's celebrate the artistry, resilience, and innovation that define Black music. Join us in honoring the legends, supporting new voices, and embracing the sounds that continue to drive our journey toward justice and healing. #RsaAsheville #RSAA #Reparations #BlackAsheville #Asheville #RacialJustice #ReparativeJustice #SpaceShifters #BlackJoy #liberation #BlackMusicMonth #RSAA #Reparations #BlackJoy #CulturalHeritage #MusicIsLife #CommunityHealing

Celebrating Black Queer Pride! This Pride Month, we honor and uplift the Black queer community, whose brilliance, creativity, and love have been vital to both the broader movement for equality and justice and the ongoing fight for Black liberation and reparations. At RSAA, we recognize that true liberation means embracing and supporting all identities within our community. Black Queer Pride is a powerful reminder of the intersectionality that strengthens our collective journey toward justice, reparations, and healing. Join us in celebrating the contributions and experiences of Black queer individuals. Let’s continue to fight for a world where everyone can live with dignity, joy, and pride. ✊🏽🌈 #BlackQueerPride #PrideMonth #RSAA #Reparations #BlackJoy #Intersectionality #LGBTQ #CommunityHealing #RsaAsheville #RSAA #liberation #SpaceShifters #Asheville #RacialJustice #Reparations #BlackJoy #ReparativeJustice #BlackAsheville

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! At RSAA, we recognize that mental health is a crucial part of our journey toward healing and justice. As we work towards Black reparations in Asheville and Buncombe County, we understand that addressing the trauma caused by systemic racism is essential for our community's well-being. Historical Trauma: Generations of Black individuals have faced the devastating impacts of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism. This collective trauma has deeply affected mental health across our community. Restorative Justice: Reparations aren't just about financial compensation—they're about restoring dignity, acknowledging past harms, and providing the resources needed for holistic healing. Community Healing: By prioritizing mental health in our reparations work, we aim to create safe spaces where Black voices are heard, and mental well-being is supported. Access to mental health services, community support, and educational programs are all vital components. Solidarity and Support: We call on our SpaceShifters (allies) to join us in advocating for mental health resources tailored to the needs of Black communities. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and champion policies that promote equity and healing. This month, let's amplify the conversation about mental health and reparations. Share your stories, support one another, and continue pushing for justice and equity. Remember: Healing is a form of resistance, and our mental well-being is a priority. #RsaAsheville #RSAA #Reparations #BlackAsheville #Asheville #RacialJustice #ReparativeJustice #SpaceShifters #BlackJoy #liberation #mentalhealthawareness

How do we reconcile the harms of our past in order to build the future we long for? In the US, media participation in a legacy of anti-Black racism and harm enabled the nation’s newspapers to become financially viable. Today, many journalists and news outlets have joined a longstanding movement to transform the media so that it can live up to its highest ideals. 🗓️ This FRIDAY, in conversation with Mandy Van Deven, Racial Equity in Journalism (REJ) Fund Program Director Alicia Bell will invite us to (re)imagine what journalism would look like in a world where Black folks are able to not just tell their stories, but own them. RSVP at the link. https://lnkd.in/geCHuawe #MediaReparations #BIPOCMedia #BlackMedia