BEDFORD-STUYVESANT — Artists and activists are asking people to wake up their minds and bodies with an early morning dance party that aims to "offer healing" around issues of police brutality.
Organizers are bringing the 7 a.m. festivities to Brooklyn on Sept. 9 to raise money for the Black Lives Matter New York chapter and the Black Alliance for Just Immigration.
“We wanted to create an event that would enliven people and get them motivated,” said Tanisha Christie, the party’s co-creator. “It’s to get people to rise together and shine together, and also meant to be a source of healing.”
The event, called “The Wake Up,” takes its name from last phrase in the Spike Lee film, “School Daze,” Christie added.
The party’s founders said they were inspired by morning raves such as DAYBREAKER, where participants work up a sweat before starting the workday.
During the September event, attendees can show off their best dance moves at entertainment venue C’mon Everybody, where DJs will spin a mix of hip-hop, soul, R&B, and funk tunes.
Partygoers can indulge in free coffee and pastries to jumpstart the morning instead of the traditional bar scene with alcohol.
Activist organizations will also be on site to provide information about their goals, as well as details on upcoming events.
“Creativity is necessary to try new things if we’re trying to shake the status quo,” Christie said. “We hope people take away not only a good time but a sense of creativity as they go about their complicated lives.”
“The Wake Up” will take place on Sept. 9 from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. at C’mon Everybody, 325 Franklin Ave. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door.
For more information, visit the event’s website or email Tanisha Christie at tanishachristie@gmail.com.
