For 2024, Know Your Rights Camp continued its powerful mission toward the liberation and upliftment of Black and Brown communities through an unwavering passion for education, self-empowerment, and mass mobilization. With an unshakable commitment to justice and equity, we fueled the creation of transformative systems designed to inspire and elevate the next generation of courageous leaders. Each effort and initiative became a rallying cry for change, resonating with the heartbeat of a movement determined to rewrite the future.
A monumental milestone, the Autopsy Initiative, established to bring hope and justice to families who have lost loved ones to police related deaths, reached 100 autopsies this year. Launched in 2022, this vital program offers families a second autopsy—free of charge—along with preliminary findings and a detailed final report, providing transparency and clarity in moments of unimaginable loss. For many, the steep costs of such services, often exceeding $13,600 on average, make justice feel out of reach. Yet, through this initiative, countless families have been given not just answers, but the dignity and empowerment they so deeply deserve.
At the heart of our mission are our transformative Camps, which this year brought powerful moments of inspiration to Black and Brown youth in Detroit and Philadelphia. These life-changing events offered young attendees a day filled with knowledge, empowerment, and community, spotlighting heritage, legal rights, financial education, tech opportunities, mental and physical wellness—alongside exciting giveaways to uplift spirits.
In April, our 12th Camp lit up Motor City's Cass Technical High School, featuring impactful guest appearances from beloved financial influencer Melissa Jean-Baptiste. Antoine Digital taught himself to code while in prison to becoming a software engineer, inspiring kids to pursue careers in technology and the iconic sports broadcaster Jemele Hill. The energy carried into September when the 13th Camp took over the Philadelphia Convention Center. There, attendees were moved by the presence of legendary civil rights trailblazers, including Mike Africa Jr. of the MOVE Organization and Ambassador Attallah Shabazz, whose words and wisdom left a profound mark. Together, these Camps served as a beacon of hope and possibility, planting seeds for a brighter future in the hearts of the next generation.
The 2024 Presidential Election was a defining moment for the nation, and KYRC was deeply committed to ensuring Black and Brown communities understood the stakes. With so much on the line—from local and state elections to the high-stakes presidential race—we took action to empower and inform. Through dynamic social media campaigns, we provided followers with vital information on voter registration, nationwide propositions and measures that could shape their futures.
But we didn't stop there. Partnering with grassroots organizations like BLWD PWR, KYRC organized impactful voter registration drives and offered transportation to the polls, breaking down barriers to participation. These efforts weren't just about casting votes—they were about amplifying voices, building power, and fighting for a future that reflects the needs and aspirations of our communities.
Finally, we supported various communities nationwide through donations. This includes the organization partnering up with The Lower Eastside Girls Club to donate over 200 Nike backpacks at The Center for Wellbeing & Happiness, addressing the urgent need for essential supplies. Recipients expressed heartfelt gratitude in French, Fulani, and Wolof as they embraced the support. The organization even collaborated with Riot Games and SoLA Foundation at FutureFest to introduce high school students to the gaming industry, providing 150 Nike backpacks and school supplies. The event, featuring ice cream from Ben & Jerry's and dedicated volunteers, inspired Black and Brown youth to explore careers in video game development. In August, we provided 800+ backpacks to Detroit Ava Jo & Durron Neighborhood Festival Events, too. That was only a tip of the iceberg of our dedication to providing support for Black and Brown communities nationwide.
Marching into 2025, KYRC remains steadfast in our commitment to creating a world where equity, justice, and opportunity are not aspirations but realities. Together, we will continue to build on this year's progress, empowering communities and inspiring the next generation to lead with courage and conviction.
Watch the recap below.
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