Convention For ‘Justice And Resistance’ Taking Place In Newark

NEWARK, NJ — A convention for “justice and resistance” will take place in the name of Martin Luther King Jr. in Newark on Saturday, April 26.

According to the People’s Organization for Progress (POP), the event is open to the general public. It is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Essex County College (Smith Hall), 303 University Avenue.

Here’s what to expect, organizers say:

“Come join us for a day filled with inspiring speakers and community building activities. This event is a platform for individuals and organizations passionate about social justice and resistance to come together, share ideas, and take action. Whether you are a seasoned activist or new to the movement, there is something for everyone at this convention. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of a positive change in our society.”

There is no registration fee to attend. Register online here. Those who are unable to register online can email info@njpop.org or call (973)801-0001.

Organizers said that more than 250 advocacy groups have endorsed the convention.

“The purpose of the convention is to develop a people’s agenda and action for its implementation,” said Lawrence Hamm, the POP chair and a former U.S. Senate candidate.

“The effort to organize this convention grows out of our determination to resist all efforts, including those of the Trump administration, to erase the gains of the civil rights movement and the social progress of the past century,” Hamm said.

“The idea to have a convention grew out of our organizing effort for the Martin Luther King March Of Resistance, which was held on January 18 and was endorsed by 308 organizations,” Hamm continued.

“Our planning for the march also included discussions about what we would do afterwards,” he said. “That is when we collectively decided to have a convention.”

“There is a strong need to have a current blueprint of common issues, goals and solutions for community building,” NAACP Newark president Deborah Smith Gregory said, noting that the local chapter has endorsed the upcoming convention.

“During the first 100 days of the Trump presidency, we have witnessed a direct attack on those who are the most vulnerable in our country,” said Charles Hall, president of Local 108 Retail Wholesale Department Store Union UFCW, another group that has endorsed the event.

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