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DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250607T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250607T123000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250517T182744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250517T182901Z
UID:10000105-1749294000-1749299400@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Freedomistas - Building Together Monthly meeting
DESCRIPTION:Are you excited\, curious or interested in the Freedom Festival? In the Freedomistas zoom call\, we playfully discover what each of us can do to create explorations of freedom and independence with neighbors and loved ones. \nJoin us in a fun session. Meet people around the country and the world. Discover what others are doing and see how you want to participate in the festival. Click here or the registration link below to register and receive zoom details.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/freedomistas-building-together-monthly-2-2/2025-06-07/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/freedomistas-building-together-monthly-2-2/2025-06-07/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/Yes1small-e1750914376960.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="FF24 Volunteer-Staff":MAILTO:info@freedomfestivalusa.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250607T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250607T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250216T022211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250607T183645Z
UID:10000074-1749308400-1749312000@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Freedom-Makers: Maroons and the Underground Railroad
DESCRIPTION:This hybrid offering will be an in-person/virtual visit to the “Underground Railroad Tree” in the Guilford Woods of North Carolina. The 300-year-old Tulip Poplar tree is a living monument and witness to the freedom-seekers who were part of this eastern seaboard launching point of the Underground Railroad during the early 19th century. The great tree is located in a 350-acre forest in Greensboro\, N.C. We will walk through the woods\, share the history of the area\, read excerpts from primary source accounts (journals and runaway ads)\, look at material culture and discuss the oral history of runaway enslaved people (maroons)\, and explore the ways in which we–people and our living world–create community and connectivity underground\, overground\, everywhere. \nLed by historian Omar H. Ali from UNC Greensboro\, the offering is part of the “Let’s Learn!: The World as Classroom” initiative of Lloyd International Honors College at UNC Greensboro and the East Side Institute in New York\, in partnership with improvscience\, the African American & African Diaspora Studies Program at UNC Greensboro\, and the all-disciplinary honors society Phi Kappa Phi. \nRegister for this event.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/freedom-makers-maroons-and-the-underground-railroad-2/
LOCATION:online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/underground-railroad-freedom-festival-event.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250619T060000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250704T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250216T020016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T063337Z
UID:10000072-1750312800-1751630400@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Art with your Cuppa in Festival '25
DESCRIPTION:In 2023\, Raquell Holmes selected paintings\, photos and drawings from the art collection of Dr. LeVell Holmes\, her father. The selection focused on Jubilee and black cultures. This year\, we’re showcasing two Sonoma County artists associated with the Freedom Festival. Select pieces of Joanna Wheeldin and Amaya Yoshikawa will be on display at Johnny’s Java\, Cotati CA\, throughout the festival. \nGrab a cup of coffee. Take your picture celebrating freedom and independence with these artists’ work. Let their pieces inspire a poem and bring it to our in-person Poetry by the Bay June 25 or online Freedom Dreams Open Mic July 4. \nLeVell would have loved this festival! He was a cultural historian who felt that the ideal history professor is one who can talk about music\, science and art as well as political events. This year’s Freedom Festival events give expression to these cultural forms and the art of coming together. \nSee you at Johnny’s\, Roadhouse or online! \nConversation with Featured Artists: Joanna Wheeldin and Amaya Yoshikawa will be at Johnny’s Java on Saturday June 28th 10:30 am-12 pm to talk about their work and their experience of being Freedom Festival Freedomistas.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/art-with-your-cuppa-25/
LOCATION:Johnny’s Java Coffee Shop\, Cotati CA\, 8492 Gravenstein Hwy\, Cotati\, CA\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/JJ_Art.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250619T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250619T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250216T021831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T043850Z
UID:10000073-1750334400-1750339800@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Freedom Festival: Opening Conversation
DESCRIPTION:What does it look like to collectively reflect on our journeys to freedom and independence\, Juneteenth to Independence Day? \nThe improvscience Freedom Festival invites people in the US and internationally to come together\, to create and explore organizing for freedom and independence. \nWhat are we celebrating with Juneteenth and Independence Day? What is freedom and independence? How have we come to celebrate Juneteenth?  We celebrate Juneteenth as a federal holiday because formerly enslaved people and their descendants advocated\, organized and marched for decades to have this day recognized and celebrated. \nIn this Freedom Festival Conversation\, you will meet fellow festival attendees and presenters from around the country; and learn who and how people are sharing their stories and dreams in the Freedom Festival. \nJoin this open\, playful and philosophical conversation led by improvscience founder Raquell Holmes and East Side Institute faculty\, Jessie Fields.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/freedom-festival-opening-conversation-25/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Conversations
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/freedom-festival-event-opening-conversations-2025.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250619T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250619T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250430T151141Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T034730Z
UID:10000096-1750359600-1750366800@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Juneteenth Staged Play Reading written & directed by Enid Pickett
DESCRIPTION:A staged play reading about love. Love of Family\, Faith\, and Freedom. Three acts: 1865-1963-2025. A black family’s journey of struggle and survival living in the USA. Performed by the Enid Pickett Players. Experience this event in person or watch it streaming live. A second reading will occur on June 20th. \nEnid Pickett Players\, names only: Natalia Humphrys\, Bruce Rhodes\, Ryan Porter\, Nancy Pritchard\, Sabryyah Abdullah\, ReEllis Dotson-Newman\, Maya James\, Zeneta Arthur-Asgill\, N’Game Gray\, Nadia HillWoodRowe Farguheson Jr.\, Christopher Bowers\, Erinn Anova\, Sela Kerr\, Shaun Greenhaigh\, Keenan Webster\, Enid Pickett \nClick the image or link below to watch the play! \n \n Video of Juneteenth
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/juneteenth-table-reading-play-written-directed-by-enid-pickett/
LOCATION:New Vintage Church\, 3300 Sonoma Avenue\, Santa Rosa\, CA\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Enid Pickett":MAILTO:enidpickettpress@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250620T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250620T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250501T122934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250701T190657Z
UID:10000098-1750446000-1750453200@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Juneteenth Staged Play Reading\, written & directed by Enid Pickett
DESCRIPTION:What is Juneteenth? Juneteenth is a staged reading of a new play by Enid Pickett–a play about love. Love of family\, faith\, and freedom. Three acts: 1865-1963-2025. A black family’s journey of struggle and survival living in the USA. Performed by the Enid Pickett Players. Click Read More to watch it streaming live. Or buy tickets at the door to attend in person at New Vintage Church\, Santa Rosa\, CA. $20 General admission\, $10Students & Seniors \nClick link to watch this amazing performance on Youtube. \nEnid Pickett Players\, names only: Natalia Humphrys\, Bruce Rhodes\, Ryan Porter\, Nancy Pritchard\, Sabryyah Abdullah\, ReEllis Dotson-Newman\, Maya James\, Zeneta Arthur-Asgill\, N’Game Gray\, Nadia HillWoodRowe Farguheson Jr.\, Christopher Bowers\, Erinn Anova\, Sela Kerr\, Shaun Greenhaigh\, Keenan Webster\, Enid Pickett.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/juneteenth-table-reading-play-written-directed-by-enid-pickett-2/
LOCATION:New Vintage Church\, 3300 Sonoma Avenue\, Santa Rosa\, CA\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Enid Pickett":MAILTO:enidpickettpress@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250621T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250621T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250423T004235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250614T234944Z
UID:10000095-1750507200-1750525200@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Marsha Pool Party
DESCRIPTION:Dive into a celebration of joy\, resistance\, and unapologetic queer freedom at MARSHA\, a pool party named after the legendary Marsha P. Johnson. Inspired by her activism\, resilience\, and radiant spirit\, this event is more than just a party—it’s a statement of pride\, community\, and queer liberation. \nBuy your tickets to attend the pool party. \n💖 What to Expect:\n🏊 Poolside Pride: A space to gather\, celebrate\, and uplift queer voices\n🎶 Live DJ: DJ Die Wies spinning all day\n💃Drag Performances: Hosted by Bionka Simone\n🌺 Flowers for Marsha: Wear or bring flowers to honor her iconic style\n🍹 Signature Cocktails & Mocktails: Sips as bold as she was\n🌈 Unapologetic Joy: Because celebrating ourselves is an act of resistance \nWear your flowers\, bring your light\, and let’s honor Marsha the best way we know how—TOGETHER. 💦🌸✨ \nFrom the producers of The Oz Ball\, Escape to Wonderland\, White Lotus and Barbie Party\, THTR Productions is proud to be partnering with the r3 Hotel to produce world-class entertainment and epic pool parties all summer long. \nPoolside seating is limited and is first-come-first-served. \nTickets available on Eventbrite here. $20 General admission
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/marsha-pool-party/
LOCATION:R3 Hotel\, 16390 4th Street\, Guerneville\, Californa\, 95446
CATEGORIES:Food & Drink,Music,Nightlife,Sports & Active Life
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/MarshaPolllParty.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="THTR Productions":MAILTO:thtrproductions@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250622T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250622T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250524T184703Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T051615Z
UID:10000108-1750593600-1750600800@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:The Freedom We Make : Queer Artists on Sound\, Struggle\, and Sanctuary Spaces
DESCRIPTION:How do queer artists create spaces of freedom-not just for survival\, but for creative process?   \nAmid the federal administration’s threats to sanctuary jurisdictions\, MovingGround initiated Sanctuary Spaces\, an art-action network to share narratives and shed light on people’s lives directly impacted through conversation\, performance\, and co-creating live and experiential Sanctuary Spaces together.   From Window\, the Black lesbian vocalist and author of Black Lesbian Bedtime Stories\, to Mister Lady Zen\, an internationally acclaimed composer\, cabaret artist\, poet\, and queer elder. Together these artists use sound\, word\, and community to build sanctuaries. Meanwhile\, Najee Rene aka “Casino\,” the Berlin-based musician and podcaster behind BABE: Black American Berlin Expat\, amplifies diasporic voices across borders. \nTogether with Freedom Festival and the Freedomistas\, Lisa Aurora Calderon\, co-founder of Naming Gallery and ToMaRo Gallery invited MovingGround Artistic Director Krista DeNio to co-moderate this panel where we ask the panelists to share: How do we create Sanctuary\, Safety\, and Protection? How does art become a tool for peace in the face of chaos? How do we preserve sanity while fighting for liberation? And what does it mean to teach\, create\, and thrive when governments change abruptly? \nJoin us for a conversation on music\, memory\, and the radical act of making room for ourselves. \nIncredible Panelists and Organizers!  \nCO-ORGANIZERS / MODERATORS:  \n\nLisa Aurora – ToMaRoGallery.com\nKrista DeNio – MovingGround\n\nPANELISTS/ ARTISTS \n\nWindow – Vocalist\, Singer Songwriter\, Artist\, and Author of Back Lesbian Bedtime Stories.\nNajee Rene aka “Casino” – The Emperor’s Tarot and BABE Black American Berlin Expat\nMister Lady Zen- Internationally acclaimed composer\, cabaret artist\, poet\, and queer elder. Learn more about her work here.\n\nRegistration and Fee: \n$5-50 sliding scale. Get tickets below. Additional donations can be made to Venmo | MovingGround; write one word in the payment note that gives or creates in you a sense of sanctuary. \n**Please note that these contributions go directly to paying the artist fees for all panel experts!
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/the-freedom-we-make-queer-artists-on-sound-struggle-and-sanctuary-spaces/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Conversations,Performing Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/Freedom_We_Make_Artwork.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250623T121500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250623T133000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250608T175514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250623T203929Z
UID:10000122-1750680900-1750685400@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:International Conversation Café: Building Community With Differences
DESCRIPTION:9:15am PT | 11:15am CT | 12:15pm ET.  \nHosted by students and faculty from Pace University’s International Conversation Group Program \nJoin us this summer for a reflective and uplifting virtual gathering where curiosity\, connection\, and community take center stage. Born from the success of Pace University’s International Conversation Group & Facilitator Training Program—a vibrant program uniting students from diverse fields\, nationalities\, and cultures—this special Conversation Café invites you to explore the power of building community with differences. \nTogether\, we’ll explore how tools of improvisation can help us build stronger relationships\, more inclusive learning environments\, and resilient communities—locally and globally. Whether you feel called to speak\, listen\, or simply be present\, this space invites you to: \n\nConnect across cultures\nExplore the art of listening and being present with each other’s voices and ideas\nCreate new possibilities with people from around the world\n\nWe’re honored to offer this session as part of the Freedom Festival\, and we can’t wait to welcome you to the circle. No preparation needed—just bring your open heart and curious mind. \nThe presenters are part of Pace University’s International Conversation Group Program: Gwen Lowenheim\, Rasika Choudhari\, and Madhura Motale. \nJune 23\, 2025: 9:15am PT | 11:15am CT | 12:15pm ET \n\n			\n				\n			\n				\n				Madhura Motale\n				\n			\n				\n			\n				\n				Rasika Choudhari\n				\n			\n				\n			\n				\n				 Gwen Lowenheim
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/international-conversation-cafe-building-community-with-differences/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/international-conversation-cafe-building-community-with-differences/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/pace.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250624T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250624T190000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250501T122147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T051527Z
UID:10000097-1750784400-1750791600@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Discord and Harmony : The Struggle for Freedom in the USA Through Blues\, Jazz\, Soul\, and Hip-Hop
DESCRIPTION:2:00 – 4:00 pm PDT/  4:00 – 6:00pm CDT/ 5:00pm – 7:00pm EDT. This will be a look at-and a listen to-the role African American music has played in embodying and inspiring the ongoing struggle for freedom and full equality in the U.S.A. The session will be a mix of music video clips (Billie Holiday\, Nina Simone and Stevie Wonder\, among others) and informal conversation led by progressive musician and composer Dan Belmont\, and life-long grassroots organizer and leader Allen Cox. \nClick the Join button at the bottom of the page to join the zoom room.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/discord-and-harmony-the-struggle-for-freedom-in-the-usa-through-blues-jazz-soul-and-hip-hop-2/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/discord-and-harmony-the-struggle-for-freedom-in-the-usa-through-blues-jazz-soul-and-hip-hop-2/
CATEGORIES:Conversations,Kids & Family,Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/JazzHipHop-768x568-2.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Dan Belmont and Allen Cox":MAILTO:dbelmont2@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250625T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250625T190000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250531T185916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T185729Z
UID:10000110-1750872600-1750878000@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Poetry by the Bay
DESCRIPTION:Let’s get together and talk about freedom and what it means to each of us\, using the oft forgotten power of poetry. Bring something original or something that resonates with you and share it at our first mic-less open mic poetry reading. \nIn this after-hours event\, light snacks are provided.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/poetry-by-the-bay/
LOCATION:Roadhouse\, 1580 Eastshore Rd\, Bodega Bay\, CA\, 94923-9758\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/Roadhousesm-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250626T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250626T163000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250606T123743Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T203533Z
UID:10000120-1750950000-1750955400@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Freely Exploring Quantum
DESCRIPTION:12:00pm PT / 2:00pm CT / 3:00pm ET. Join us. What can freedom look like related to the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology? Join two or three physicists to play with and wonder about quantum models of the microscopic world in this interactive workshop. No prior background or familiarity with quantum physics needed\, just curiosity!\n \nJune 26\, 2025: 12:00pm PT / 2:00pm CT / 3:00pm ET \n \n  \n  \n  \nLed by Dr. Carolyn Sealfon\, a scientist with a background in Bayesian cosmology. She seeks to collaboratively apply beautiful and challenging mathematics to practical problems. Education integrates her longtime passions of problem-solving through science and connecting people through performing arts. \n\nCo-Presenter\, Dr. Nicholas Gross: With a Ph.D. in physics\, for over 2 decades Nick has been working on science education project at all levels\, including those projects for an audience new to science. \n\nCo-Presenter\, Dr. Simone Hyater-Adams: Dr. Simone Hyater-Adams is a physicist\, artist\, educator\, and researcher with a drive for supporting Black and Brown STEM students and finding creative ways to combine her passions for both science and art. Her PER research focuses on understanding the ways physicists of color and LGBTQIA+ physicists identify with the physics community. Additionally\, she runs a STEM and Arts Education consulting firm that works with universities and non-profits on research projects and educational programming at the intersection of STEM and Art.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/freely-exploring-quantum/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/freely-exploring-quantum/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250627T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250627T132000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250531T191443Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250627T202543Z
UID:10000111-1751025600-1751030400@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Solar Punk and Rural Education: A conversation
DESCRIPTION:12:00pm PT / 2:00pm CT / 3:00pm ET \nJoin us. The literary\, artistic\, and social movement “Solar Punk” often portrays a futuristic\, post-capitalist\, and even decolonial\, world. What does “Solar Punk” have to do with Science\, Technology\, Engineering\, Math\, and Computing (STEM+C) Learning? Is there a relationship between this literary genre and creating equitable access to educational materials? How does freedom play into the ideas of the solar punk movement\, and how are those similar or different from creating access to technology in a warming world? \nEdEon projects seek to partner with under-resourced\, rural communities to bring technological assets that enable community members to engage critically in computational thinking and explore the roles that technology can or does play in their worlds. Laura Peticolas and Hannah Hellman discuss how they see their hands-on education work at EdEon STEM Learning and Sonoma State University reaching rural communities as part of this literary genre. Laura Peticolas is Co-Director of EdEon\, a PhD physicist\, and STEM+C educator. Hannah Hellman is EdEon’s Communications Specialist\, a Masters in English\, and writer. \nJune 27\, 2025\, 12:00pm PT / 2:00pm CT / 3:00pm ET \n 
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/solar-punk/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/solar-punk/
CATEGORIES:Conversations,Education,Lectures & Books
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/EdEonSSUa-e1750710561810.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250627T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250627T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250602T043725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250627T232641Z
UID:10000112-1751036400-1751040000@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Open Forum with Community for Law Enforcement Accountability Now - CLEAN (Sonoma)
DESCRIPTION:3:00 – 4:00 pm PDT/ 5:00 – 6:00 pm CDT/ 6:00 – 7:00 pm EDT \nThe Community for Law Enforcement Accountability Now (CLEAN) of Sonoma (CA) County invites you to join them for a conversation about the history of law enforcement in America.  \nThe members of CLEAN\, each with very different backgrounds\, will discuss how CLEAN was created\, and how we came together to fight for transparency and accountability from law enforcement at the county level.  We will address what inspired us to take action\, and how we are fighting to ensure that everyone is able to live free and without oppression.  \nCLEAN members who will be speaking are: \nBarbara Grasseschi\, President and founding member. With a diverse background in finance\, sales\, and marketing for the high-tech industry\, Barbara has been a strong advocate of positive political action to strengthen the community locally\, statewide\, and nationally.  \nBarbara serves on the Steering Committee for the Electing Women Alliance\, the National Advisory Board for the Union of Concerned Scientists\, and is the founder of the Wine Country Chapter of Electing Women Bay Area.  \n Carl Tennenbaum\, Secretary. A 32 year veteran with the San Francisco Police Department\, Carl specialized in community policing and public outreach\, with an emphasis on restorative justice and alternatives to police responses to mental health\, homelessness\, and substance use issues.\n \nCarl is an outspoken critic of modern police tactics\, using his platform as a speaker with the international police reform organization Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP)\, and as a member of CLEAN.  \nAlcina Horstman\, Treasurer. Alcina is one of the founding members of CLEAN and the Measure P ballot initiative that created civilian oversight of the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office. Alcina has a long history of social activism and community outreach\, specializing in restorative justice practices. Alcina’s commitment to law enforcement and accountability is perfectly balanced by her empathetic and inclusive nature.  \nOther members of CLEAN\, include:  \nKirstyne Lange Highly recognized and acknowledged for her tireless activism\, Kirstyne has dedicated her life to the model of diversity\, equity\, and inclusion for everyone. A long term resident of the San Francisco Bay Area\, Kirstyne prides herself on her work creating and continuing important dialogues and policies of inclusion in education\, government\, and law enforcement.  \nKirstyne is the President of the NAACP – Santa Rosa | Sonoma County\, Unit #1074B\, along with her membership and activism with a number of other local and national organizations.  \nNancy Pemberton Nancy is an attorney and investigator who has spent her career representing people charged with capital crimes who are facing possible state sponsored execution. This places Nancy at the absolute heart of what freedom means\, and her work helps people realize that ultimate freedom: life.  \nNancy is the co-founder of the Institute for International Criminal Investigations (IICI)\, an organization that trains professionals in the investigation of human atrocities. She currently serves as the Secretary/Treasurer of the IICI.  \nNancy is also currently the Vice Chair of Sonoma County Community Advisory Council to the Independent Office of Law Enforcement Review and Oversight (IOLERO)\, the civilian body that oversees the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office.  \n 
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/open-forum-with-clean-sonoma-county/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/open-forum-with-clean-sonoma-county/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/CLEANlogo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250628T050000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250628T063000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250604T124521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250614T050643Z
UID:10000099-1751086800-1751092200@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:AIN xWatch Party + GPB Playtelligence
DESCRIPTION:AINxWatch Party is back!! \nJune 28\, 2025 8am CDT/9amEDT/9pm PST/10pm JST \nThe first AINxWatch party for 2025 will be a collaboration event between Applied Improv Network\, Global Play Brigade\, and the Improvscience’s Freedom Festival.  \nJoin us to watch We will watch a recording of “Embracing The Unknown: it’s what we’ve got\,” a recording from the which was part of the Global Play Brigade Playshops on Playtelligence – March 2025.  In this workshop\, we explored how in a world of constant change\, relying on old knowledge isn’t enough. What we need is improvisation\, curiosity\, and a willingness to explore unknownability. Educators\, students\, and change-makers came together to play\, perform and rethink learning\, and grow together. \nTo broaden our concept of unknowability\, here is a quote from Lois Holzmans’ American Psychological Association blog post\, Embrace the Unknowable\, No Matter How Grim.  She shared\, “Holding fast to the belief that the happenings of our lives are knowable can get us into deep trouble…Ironically\, the belief that knowing what will happen prepares us for it actually leaves us less prepared for it…Accepting—better yet\, embracing—unknowability helps us be more\, not less\, prepared. More prepared to participate in what’s transpiring and give some direction to it. More prepared to create with others what will emerge from the process. More prepared to improvise. More prepared to grow. Embracing unknowability is a way to live a ‘yes\, and…’ life. ” \nEveryone is welcome to join in! Join us! Let’s step boldly into the unknown—because that’s where possibility lives! \nJune 28th Saturday 5am PDT/7am CDT/8am EDT/8pm CST / 9pm JST \n\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n		\n \n 
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/ain-xwatch-party-gpb-playtelligence/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/ain-xwatch-party-gpb-playtelligence/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/watch-party-update.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250628T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250628T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250608T173112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T191443Z
UID:10000121-1751106600-1751112000@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Conversation with Freedomista Artists
DESCRIPTION:The Freedom Festival is organized by volunteers–presenters\, artists\, sponsors\, scientists\, educators\, herbalists\, enthusiasts and attendees. The artists who are Freedomistas offer a visual gift of flyers\, accessibility and inspiration. Come see what they explore in their mediums. \nJoanna Wheeldin and Amaya Yoshikawa will be onsite at Johnny’s Java to talk about their work and their experience of celebrating freedom and independence in the festival. \nJoanna Wheeldin is a multi-media artist from Sonoma County. Her intersectionality as a mixed race queer woman informs her artistic expression. Joanna is constantly inspired by art across centuries and cultures\, combining influences to honor the collective human nature of art. Her work aims to play\, to ask questions\, and to bring our imagination to life. \n  \n  \n\nAmaya Yoshikawa is a mixed Black and Asian artist based in Sonoma County\, California. Her work explores identity\, community\, and social justice. She creates to uplift marginalized voices and inspire reflection\, healing\, and connection. \n  \n  \nJune 28\, 2025: 10:30am – 12pm PT
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/conversation-with-freedomista-artists/
LOCATION:Johnny’s Java Coffee Shop\, Cotati CA\, 8492 Gravenstein Hwy\, Cotati\, CA\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250628T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250628T163000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250626T041836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T051314Z
UID:10000123-1751117400-1751128200@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:North Bay Freedomistas\, Fans and Friends of the Festival
DESCRIPTION:1:30 pm – 4:30 pm PT Join us this Saturday in Cotati for a potluck reception celebrating the work of the festival and the birthday of Freedomista Jacqueline Hayward.  \nWe’ll eat\, talk\, laugh\, and share stories of the festival and enjoy what we’re building together. \nWho: Presenters\, collaborators\, donors\, fans and friends of the festival\nWhere: Holmes Haven\, Cotati\n\n\nRSVPs requested. \nFreedomistas have fun while creating festival events\, fliers and aspirations
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/north-bay-freedomistas-fans-and-friends-of-the-festival/
LOCATION:CA
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/freedom-festival-cheers-celebration.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="improvscience":MAILTO:info@improvscience.org
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250628T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250628T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250605T135740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250629T010146Z
UID:10000119-1751139000-1751144400@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:Free Will and Determinism in Anime: A discussion of compatibilism in the context of working towards more freedom for all people
DESCRIPTION:4:30pm PT / 6:30pm CT / 7:30pm ET \nJoin us. Are we bound to fulfill our destinies\, or does our free will determine our path? Jennifer Teig von Hoffman will explore the questions and statements about free will raised by several Japanese animation series\, including Mawaru Penguindrum\, Princess Tutu\, and Puella Magi Madoka Magica. This will be followed by an open discussion space on how compatibilism informs our continued work towards more freedom for all people. \nJennifer Teig von Hoffman is a frequent panelist at pop culture conventions\, such as Anime Boston and ConnectiCon. She is in her crone era\, having been a pop culture obsessive since growing up on Speed Racer and Star Trek in the 1970s. Like many folks of younger generations\, her fascination with Japanese animation was triggered by stumbling across an episode of Cowboy Bebop on Adult Swim in 2001. Jennifer’s gender is a rounding error\, and any pronouns are fine. Her academic background is in Philosophy (BA) and Administrative Studies (MS); her critical thinking is informed by Marxism\, surrealist though\, and queer theory. \nJune 28\, 2025: 4:30pm PT / 6:30pm CT / 7:30pm ET
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/free-will-and-determinism-in-anime/
LOCATION:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/free-will-and-determinism-in-anime/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/FreeWill2025-Festival.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250629T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20250629T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T083020
CREATED:20250517T182023Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250623T010740Z
UID:10000102-1751198400-1751205600@freedomfestivalusa.org
SUMMARY:The Freedom We Make : Queer Artists on Sound\, Struggle\, and Sanctuary Spaces
DESCRIPTION:12-2pm PDT / 2-4 pm CDT/ 3-4 pm EDT. How do queer artists create spaces of freedom-not just for survival\, but for creative process?   \nAmid the federal administration’s threats to sanctuary jurisdictions\, MovingGround initiated Sanctuary Spaces\, an art-action network to share narratives and shed light on people’s lives directly impacted through conversation\, performance\, and co-creating live and experiential Sanctuary Spaces together.   From Window\, the Black lesbian vocalist and author of Black Lesbian Bedtime Stories\, to Mister Lady Zen\, an internationally acclaimed composer\, cabaret artist\, poet\, and queer elder. Together these artists use sound\, word\, and community to build sanctuaries. Meanwhile\, Najee Rene aka “Casino\,” the Berlin-based musician and podcaster behind BABE: Black American Berlin Expat\, amplifies diasporic voices across borders. \nTogether with Freedom Festival and the Freedomista\, Lisa Aurora Calderon\, co-founder of Naming Gallery and ToMaRo Gallery invited MovingGround Artistic Director Krista DeNio to co-moderate this panel where we ask the panelists to share: How do we create Sanctuary\, Safety\, and Protection? How does art become a tool for peace in the face of chaos? How do we preserve sanity while fighting for liberation? And what does it mean to teach\, create\, and thrive when governments change abruptly? Join us for a conversation on music\, memory\, and the radical act of making room for ourselves. \nIncredible Panelists and Organizers! :: \nCO-ORGANIZERS / MODERATORS:  \n\nLisa Aurora – ToMaRoGallery.com\nKrista DeNio – MovingGround\n\nPANELISTS/ ARTISTS \n\nWindow – Vocalist\, Singer Songwriter\, Artist\, and Author of Black Lesbian Bedtime Stories.\nNajee Rene aka “Casino” – The Emperor’s Tarot and BABE Black American Berlin Expat\nMister Lady Zen- Internationally acclaimed composer\, cabaret artist\, poet\, and queer elder. Learn more about her work here.\n\nRegistration and Fee: \n$5-50 sliding scale. Get tickets below. Additional donations can be made to Venmo | MovingGround; write one word in the payment note that gives or creates in you a sense of sanctuary \n**Please note that your contribution goes directly to paying the artist fees for all panel experts! \n12-2pm PDT / 2-4 pm CDT/ 3-4 pm EDT.
URL:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/event/the-freedom-we-make-queer-artists-on-sound-struggle-and-sanctuary-spaces-2/
LOCATION:online
CATEGORIES:Conversations,Performing Arts
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://freedomfestivalusa.org/wp-content/uploads/Freedom_We_Make_Artwork.jpg
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