‘Hug The Block’: Newark Neighbors Bond Over Art, Music

NEWARK, NJ — A display of “healing, uniting and growing” recently brought together neighbors in Newark at Clinton Hill Community Action’s recent “H.U.G. the Block” event.

Last month, the nonprofit helped to transform the corner of 10th Street and Clinton Avenue with an evening of art, music and “connection.”

The streets of Newark came alive as community members of all ages gathered to leave their mark – literally – by drawing messages of hope, unity and love in colorful chalk on the sidewalks. Meanwhile, local poets gave spoken word performances, while live cyphers and music filled the air.

“This wasn’t just an event—it was a movement,” said Margie Johnson, CHCA’s manager of arts and creative placemaking.

“Seeing so many people come together to create, share, and uplift one another was a testament to the power of community,” Johnson added. “This is what Healing, Uniting, and Growing looks like.”

The event was held in partnership with the New Jersey Performing Arts Center as part of the ArtsXChange initiative and supported by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.

For more information about future Clinton Hill Community Action events, visit https://clintonhillaction.org/events.

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