Photo of the Week: “With Love” Community Celebration

by Marita Banda, Vira Douangmany Cage, and Mary Custard

I have always wanted to put something together for the community to just be joyful on purpose. My grandfather, Raymond Eliott Sr. was known for creating spaces in town for people to celebrate their differences. One event that he did every year (that I now host) along with his dear friend Ash Hartwell and members of the community, is Race Amity Day which is also celebrated nationally. When I finally had the time to plan this event, I immediately reached out to my friend Jake Krauth aka Deejay Theory, to see if he would be on board and he was also very excited to put something together that would celebrate the community. Next, I reached out to 80 Acres to see if we could make this a fundraiser for their free store and they gladly agreed! The event included vendors such as Positively Africana, Resonance Hot Yoga Massage, Just Body Glow, Tem Blessed + “Planeta Blu”, Amherst Media, Cambodians of Amherst exhibit info table, Kathleen Anderson Designs and art by Nayana Lafond. There were kids activities and a raffle with prizes from local vendors. Tem Blessed did a short set that also stuck with the theme of love and positivity. People were talking, connecting and enjoying the “With Love!” atmosphere that we created. We look forward to having more “With Love!” events in the future that will focus on bringing the community together and supporting local non-profits.”

The “With Love” celelbraton was held at Kendrick Park on Saturday, August 17. It was co-sponsored by Citizen’s for Race Amity Now! and Original Ting Music. Marita Banda

Photos are by Martia Banda, Vira Douangmany Cage, and Mary Custard