Circles of Light 2026 - A MLK Day Community Gathering

Description

Honoring the legacy. Illuminating our shared future. #MakeATXBRAVE

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” ~ Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr

Join BRAVE Communities for an intimate and intentional gathering honoring the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his enduring vision of unity, love, justice, and community.

In a time marked by division, rapid technological change, economic uncertainty, and growing mental health challenges, this community experience invites neighbors, youth, elders, creatives, professionals, and leaders to slow down, lean in, and listen...together.

Through facilited listening circles, participants will engage in meaningful dialogue around how technology can be used responsibly to strengthen community, democracy, equity, financial wellbeing, and collective care.

• Responsible & Ethical Technology (with Ruben Cantu, Founder of LMNTS) - How do we navigate innovation with humanity, representation, accountability, and care?
• Financial Literacy & Building Generational Wealth (with Kacie Swartz, Managing Partner, Blackbarn Financial) - How do we share knowledge, shift narratives, and build pathways toward long-term stability and prosperity?
• Mental Health & Well-Being (with Candyce Hunt, Co-Founder of 5 Minute Career Hack) - In what ways has technology supported or strained your mental health or sense of connection?
• Technology, Civic Engagement & Voting (with Grace Brooks, Political Fellow, Planned Parenthood Texas Votes) - How has technology helped or hindered your ability to stay informed, engaged, or confident in civic participation?

 ✨ Special Announcement: During this gathering, we will also share and launch an exciting new youth-led initiative designed to empower young people and youth groups across Austin to take action, collaborate, and lead change to #MakeATXBRAVE. Rooted in listening, creativity, and community service, this initiative will support youth-driven ideas that imagine - and build - a more just, connected, and hopeful future.

These listening circles are not debates or panels - they are BRAVE spaces for reflection, shared stories, and mutual understanding. You do not need to be an expert - just willing to show up with curiosity, compassion, and an open heart. 

Event Details

📅 Date: Monday, January 19, 2025
📍 Location: Rozco’s Comedy Club, 1805 E. 7th St., Austin, TX 78702
🕑 Time: 2:00–4:00 PM CT
🎻 Youth Performances: Project Melody Quartet, Riley O.
🤝 Pop-Up Marketplace: Local Vendors  (Interested in being a vendor? Limited space available)

🎟️ This is a FREE community event. If you’re able, please consider making a donation to help cover event costs, refreshments, and sustain BRAVE’s youth-led initiatives. Pay what you can - all are welcome.

Thank you to Rozco's Comedy Club as our venue sponsor - ADA accessible and walking distance to Huston-Tillotson University (if planning to attend MLK Rally) and 7th Comal/Chicon bus stops. Rozco's will have a cash bar with full bar and hot drinks available too. Please contact us for any translation and interpretation needs. 

Interested in Volunteering at this event? Volunteer hours available for approval. 

2026 Partnerships available for our quarterly community events + youth initiatives. 

Space is limited, so RSVP today to secure your spot!

RSVP HERE