The Pico Youth & Family Center will host its first annual “International Wombyn/Women’s Day: Planting the Seeds of Resistance” benefit today, March 8 from 5 pm to 10 pm.
Those interested in supporting female empowerment through art, music, culture, and in advancing social justice are invited to attend the event at PYFC, 715 Pico Boulevard.
PYFC’s Wombyns Group is a safe space for young females who attend Santa Monica High School, Olympic High School, and Santa Monica College and/or are from the community of Santa Monica.
The wombyn of PYFC are dedicated to improving the educational and mentorship opportunities, leadership empowerment, and civic engagement in the community.
The group seeks to inspire the women to think critically about how they are portrayed in society.
The group promotes and encourages the development of self-identity and unity among women.
PYFC’s goal is to equip the women with the necessary tools for them to adjust in everyday situations and throughout their lives. The organization also helps these girls generate a feeling of inner respect and love for themselves, while learning to be self-empowered.
This evening’s benefit will include live art by Sand One, performances by Hope, Jasmine Nicole Jamison, and K’la J (Krystal Jasmin), Azteca dancers (Majawil wq’ij), Grupo Folklórico de UCLA, and Traditional Southern Cloth (Native American dance).
Attendees who arrive early can take part in a special ceremonial blessing of the center.
Support vendors for the event include Ilaments Jewelry, Checa Chic, Angelsity Banditz Klothing, Cha Cha Covers, Special Blends, Teocintli Shop, and more.
Homemade food (made with love by several PYFC mothers) will be for sale.
The evening will also include music by DJ Bella Foxx and Miss Sunny Z.
Throughout the night, PYFC will be paying homage to Rigoberta Menchú and other wombyn leaders, including honoree of the evening, Maria Loya.
The PYFC is asking for a $5-$10 donation at the door, which will enter guests in a raffle.
Since 2002, PYFC, a non-profit organization, has served hundreds of at-risk youth on the Westside by providing much needed case management, counseling, tutoring, computer training, job readiness preparation, and music production training.
PYFC targets youth ages 16-24 that are most at risk – including those who are failing academically, not in school, or on probation. The PYFC is a positive alternative to the streets for many of Santa Monica’s youth and young adults who seek guidance, support and service.
For more information, visit picoyouth.org.
