In July 2024, HAF+WRCF supported the Humboldt County Black Music and Arts Association (HCBMAA) with a $30,000 grant to support the general operations of the Harambee Cultural Center (HCC).
The HCC is a youth-centered space in Northtown Arcata that opened in February. The HCBMAA and HCC provide a variety of supports and resources for transitional-age youth of all cultural backgrounds, low-income families, learners living with mental health disabilities, bilingual learners, 2Spirit/LGBTQIA+, and runaway and homeless youth.
HCC’s leaders hope to make a positive impact on those facing the intersections of adverse structural conditions, including marginalization, racism, health inequities, and economic insecurity, which can contribute to addiction and mental health challenges. The space has wellness spaces, diverse cultural books, resources for job skills development, nutritious food, a kitchen, a restorative healing circle, and more. The HCC hopes to create opportunities for youth to find a stronger sense of belonging and well-being where they can feel seen and valued.
The HCC is not just a space, but a vibrant hub for cultural events and workshops. It serves as a meeting place for local Black, Indigenous, Multiracial and People of Color grassroots groups and nonprofit organizations. These events and workshops are designed to inspire and motivate students to explore new interests, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
“The center feels like such a gift. The center is providing space for all ideas. There’s food, there are snacks for the kids, and I’m really excited about the youth council,” says Olivia Obidah, HCC Sistamentor.
The center also embraces the cultural practice of Ubuntu, which means ‘you belong, are accepted, and needed in the community.’ This philosophy is at the heart of the center’s peer-leadership model, which draws inspiration, development, and leadership from its youth for many of its projects and activities.
Teens are welcome to join the center’s Youth Council, which meets monthly on the first and third Saturdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Contact harambeeculturalcenter@ gmail.com to learn more.
HCBMAA also offers a unique youth support system with nutrition, activity, and cultural awareness. The one-on-one mentoring, facilitated by the brothamentor and sistamentor, ensures that BIPOC youth in K-12 receive the tailored support they need to thrive and connect culturally. This service is available by appointment only, so each session is focused and effective during the school session.
For more information, contact the youth coordinator, Lorenza, at info@hcblackmusicnarts.org.