Social Justice Now: Peace Ball 2025 Highlights

The 2025 Peace Ball, hosted by Busboys and Poets during MLK weekend and a prelude to Black History Month, transcended the typical gala. It served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for social justice in a nation fractured by political polarization and the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. In a time of uncertainty regarding jobs, education, and community support, the event ignited a sense of activism and offered a much-needed beacon of hope.

While other events might have focused on celebrating electoral outcomes, Busboys and Poets, under the leadership of founder Andy Shallal, remained steadfast in honoring the progressive activists and change-makers who continue to fuel the movement. “These people here tonight,” Shallal explained, “have been working on so many issues throughout the year… This is a chance for people to realize they’re not alone.” In a political climate often marked by division and setbacks, the Peace Ball offered a crucial sense of community and shared purpose.

Shallal’s hope for 2025 resonated with many attendees: a “moment of inflection” where opportunities arise amidst change. He emphasized the need to press forward on critical issues, such as voting rights, economic inequality, and police reform, from the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the climate crisis to the struggles faced by women and LGBTQ+ individuals. “This is a beginning moment,” he declared, urging action in this “liminal space, a period of transition and uncertainty,” before entrenched power structures solidify.

The event’s focus on peace was echoed by Mosab Abu Toha, who stressed the importance of raising awareness about global atrocities, such as the ongoing humanitarian crisis. “If we don’t talk about the atrocities that are happening to people…no one will pay attention,” he said. His hope for 2025 was simple yet profound: “that people gather around the same torch, which is peace.”

The Peace Ball also celebrated the power of art and expression. Poet Lady Brion spoke of her inspirations, citing Lucille Clifton as a key influence. Her hope for 2025 is to produce new works and connect with communities across Maryland during her tenure as Poet Laureate.

Ibram X. Kendi, whose presence underscored the event’s commitment to anti-racism, spoke about the importance of community and resistance. Reflecting on his own journey as a writer, he noted the increasing opportunities for Black academics to reach the general public, a positive shift in the literary landscape. Kendi also acknowledged the impact of social media and urged writers to find new ways to connect with audiences in shorter formats, meeting people “where they are.” His hope for 2025 was a powerful call to action: “that we don’t lose hope…that in many ways we organize together, we resist together, we love together.”

Gina Dent emphasized the transformative power of art, describing it as “more profound” than a mere tool. “Art is really what actually transforms us, helps us grow inside and helps us extend to others,” she explained. Addressing the challenges facing young people, Dent offered a message of resilience: “Stay strong…we will continue and that Black people have always had to endure and we are always stronger and we always lead the way.” Her hope for 2025 was for “different news,” driven by collective action in the pursuit of peace.

Activist and academic Angela Davis highlighted the crucial role of hope, echoing Mariam Kaba’s assertion that it is a discipline, something we must actively cultivate. Davis emphasized the historical resilience of Black people, stating, “As Black people who have experienced a centuries-long struggle for liberation, we are the embodiment of that hope that has been generated over and over again, even when conditions appear to be hopeless.”

The Peace Ball’s impressive lineup of speakers and performers underscored its commitment to diverse voices and artistic expression. From Mehdi Hasan and Alice Walker to Sweet Honey in the Rock and the Black Leaves Dance Company, the event showcased the power of art and dialogue to inspire and unite. The presence of prominent political figures, including Congresswomen Rashida Tlaib, Cori Bush, Summer Lee, and Ilhan Omar, further emphasized the event’s connection to the ongoing struggle for social justice.