Dena United Coalition for Racial Justice is a coalition of nonprofit organizations working together to create inspiring events that promote solidarity around issues of racial justice in Altadena and Pasadena.
WHo We Are
The Soul Force Project promotes social justice through global music and the arts with live music, online events, and creative content celebrating diverse themes of nonviolent action.
My Tribe Rise opens doors for growth by demonstrating cultural responsibilities in our communities. They strive to stimulate the community by raising awareness of ways to eliminate conflict and decrease crime while also building fundamental relationships and increasing the community values.
Compassionate ARTS listens to the needs of clients and then coaches and consults on how the arts can aid in empowering and building leadership skills while also mentoring youth. Their goal is to build resilience and hope using the arts and experiences and promote civic engagement for social, racial, and environmental justice.
Altadena Arts is dedicated to celebrating artists (especially artists of color, women artists, and artists with disabilities) through the creation, production, and presentation of public artworks and arts education programs that are accessible and inclusive at Charles White Park and throughout the community of Altadena.
Neighbors Building a Better Altadena promotes community-wide engagement to make Altadena economically strong and socially cohesive while preserving our cultural and economic diversity.
Community Initiatives
Walking for Peace
Neighborhood trust-based violence prevention, Tribe “gang” alliance peacemakingPaint Dena Peaceful
Community collaboration to paint murals that empower and celebrate our diverse cultural history.Connecting Community Voices
Zoom dialogues lifting up diverse stories from the community addressing police conflict and environmental justiceSoul Force Library and Music
Online playlist access and free mobile book lending of contemporary and historical nonviolent iconsAfro-Latin Rhythm Circle
Intergenerational drumming based on authentic Latin & African rhythmsSoul Force Singers
Cross-cultural chorus of community membersCharles White Art Park
Public art park celebrating and featuring artists of color
How do we rethink systems & practices?
There is a resurgence of violence in the communities of color in Pasadena and Altadena.
What we can do to change things:
Reframe our understanding and examine root causes
Rewrite the "us and them" narrative
Retool our lanquage to best serve the community (changing "gangs" into "tribes of affinity")
Form new partnerships and alliances that integrate peaceful initiatives
Push for commitments to redemptive versus retributive justice
Join the coalition
Nonprofit organizations, local businesses, and individuals who align with our vision are invited to be a part of Dena United.
The Dena United Coalition for Racial Justice aims to foster collaboration across racial, political, and economic boundaries within the Altadena/Pasadena community. Our members include artists, activists, community leaders, workers, and entrepreneurs dedicated to promoting creative peacemaking and restorative justice.
We advocate for meaningful dialogue that acknowledges historical context and encourages critical thinking. Our activities include celebrating thought-provoking art, music, interracial discussions, and building bridges. Above all, we are committed to amplifying diverse voices within our local neighborhoods, the United States, and globally.
If you identify with our mission, we invite you to complete the form and become a part of our coalition.