Hundreds Gather at “Wilson Block Party” in Commitment to Nonviolence

ALBUQUERQUE – On Sunday, July 14, more than 600 members of the community joined the City of Albuquerque’s Albuquerque Community Safety Department, Bernalillo County, City Councilor Nichole Rogers and Bernalillo County Commissioner Adriann Barboa for a block party at Wilson Park and Pool in Albuquerque’s International District. The Summer of Nonviolence event provided a blend of support services and entertainment for attendees of all ages.

At Wilson Park, Inner City Cirkle hosted breakdancing performances from local dance crews. The adjacent Wilson Pool offered families a place to cool off from the warm weather, a live DJ, mini-golf in the picnic areas, and a skate jam on the connected tennis courts. Attendees also enjoyed complimentary meals from food trucks for anyone that took the Summer of Nonviolence Pledge and survey.

Resource providers were also on hand to offer guidance and support services for families. Part of the Summer of Nonviolence’s campaign aims to connect local families with the resources needed to foster a stronger, more resilient community.

CLICK HERE FOR BREAKDANCING VIDEOS.

"It’s important to provide families and especially our youth, outlets where they can be safe and take pride in their community," said City Councilor Nichole Rogers, one of the event’s organizers. "This block party not just provided entertainment but also had representatives from local organizations readily available to help families with any struggles they might be currently going through."

"Providing families with free, enjoyable activities helps keep young people engaged and, most importantly, safe," Mayor Tim Keller explained. "When our community comes together to support our youth, our city grows stronger, and that's what the Summer of Nonviolence is all about."

This weekend’s Wilson Block Party is so far the largest Summer of Nonviolence event. 

"The turnout was tremendous!” said Bernalillo County Commissioner Adriann Barboa, who also helped in organizing the block party. “It’s very important to provide safe spaces for the youth and ensure that they’re feeling supported by their community.”

Many of the youth on hand took the Summer of Nonviolence pledge and received a complimentary “I Pledge” t-shirt. The pledge is a commitment to engaging in positive actions and promoting peace throughout the summer.

The campaign offers a series of events throughout the season for young people to have fun and stay safe. For more information about this event and future happenings, please visit the Summer of Nonviolence website.