Last Saturday, the sound of music, poetry, and passionate conversation filled Abner Clay Park as over a hundred Richmond residents gathered for the State of the People Power Tour’s visit — a day dedicated to community building, empowerment and social change. 

The Jackson Ward neighborhood buzzed with activity around the park’s athletic field, where attendees moved between food trucks, art vendors and booths representing political and advocacy groups. The event combined entertainment with meaningful dialogue, reflecting a nationwide push to amplify Black voices amid ongoing local protests and the state’s primary elections.

For Deborah James, a residential facility coach who came with her grandson to enjoy the playground, the event offered both fun and engagement.

“So far they’ve offered a health screening, and a lot of food and different activities for kids, so that’s fun in itself right there,” James said. “And they have a lot for adults to participate in.”

As the latest event in a nationwide effort to grow engagement around issues critical to the Black community, the Power Tour arrived as protests in Richmond have shown the public’s interest in systemic change, and as voting continues in the state’s primary elections.

Alongside the food and entertainment, workshops on topics such as Black businesses, community investment and empowering marginalized groups were held throughout the day.

The discussions, which featured national and local figures, began with brief panel talks on stage that led into longer sessions across the street at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia.

“As our ancestors turned to each other and not on each other, we have to replicate that endeavor,” radio host Gary Flowers said during a panel.

Singer and performance coach Nickey McMullen captured the spirit of the event during the opening rally, calling it “partying with purpose.”

“It’s got to be intentional,” McMullen said. “The healing of our nation has to start here because the sickness started here.”