Education | S.T.A.R., Stand Together Against Racism

Changing the World one Bracelet at a Time

Displayed at the Through Your Looking Glass Social Justice Art Showcase, student artist and Operating Board member, Olive Goldenberg, created visionary mixed media artwork, comprised of inspired beaded bracelets, imploring viewers to "love earth," and "be the change," while reminding viewers to "stop asian hate," and that "racism is a disease."

Take a Look by Freya Goldenberg

Displayed at the Through Your Looking Glass Social Justice Art Showcase, student artist and Operating Board member Freya Goldenberg's striking artwork entitled "Take a Look" features a beautiful, vivid collage on top of a mirror that begs the powerful question, "Do you stand with the oppressed or the oppressor?"

George Floyd March

Community members stand together to honor and seek justice for George Floyd

Changing the World one Bracelet at a Time

Displayed at the Through Your Looking Glass Social Justice Art Showcase, student artist and Operating Board member, Olive Goldenberg, created visionary mixed media artwork, comprised of inspired beaded bracelets, imploring viewers to "love earth," and "be the change," while reminding viewers to "stop asian hate," and that "racism is a disease."

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News & Upcoming Events

2026 America 250th Celebrations

JANUARY 19th 2026

FEBRUARY ..th 2026

Join Stand Together Against Racism (STAR) for Infinite Hope – MLK Day 2026, an intergenerational community celebration honoring the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Through hands-on art, reflection, and conversation, participants of all ages will explore what Dr. King’s message of justice, equality, and hope means in our lives today.

Click Here to Register

Follow us on Instagram

Join us for a celebration of Martin Luther King on Monday, January 19th. We’ll have arts and crafts and an interactive and intergenerational mind mapping project to inspire conversation about MLK Jr’s important legacy. All ages welcome - free to attend.

We’ll be back at the YMCA in four locations: Bridgeport, Greenwich, New Canaan and Wilton. Note that times vary by location:

Bridgeport YMCA - 850 Park Avenue, 2-4pm

YMCA of Greenwich - 1-3pm (inquire at front desk for room location)

Wilton YMCA - Main Lobby, 11:30am-1:30pm

New Canaan YMCA - Wagner Room, 2-4pm

Choose your Y when registering (link in bio), but drop ins are also welcome. Come and stay as long as you’d like!

MLK FOOD DRIVE AT THE Y’s

We encourage attendees and others to contribute to a food drive which will benefit Pantry at 219, a non-profit organization in Bridgeport that provides a self-service 24/7 pantry, filled with a variety of food options, including fresh produce, dairy, and non-perishables, that serves with “kindness, love, and hope—empowering our community, spreading positivity, and making a difference one act at a time.” Each of the four Y ‘s will collect non-perishables and personal hygiene items through January 19th. Mention that you’re contributing to the S.T.A.R MLK Food Drive!

See you on the 19th!! REGISTER TODAY

#martinlutherkingjr #mlkday #ymcagreenwich #ymcabridgeport #ymcanewcanaan #ymcawiltonbranch #newcanaanct #greenwichct #bridgeportct #wiltonct #fooddrive

Here’s some scenes from the Art Showcase Opening Reception with more to come! (Credit @readyrock_dot )

Be sure to swing by the Carriage Barn in New Canaan to see art from over 80 students representing 26 different schools in Fairfield County, and read the stories behind their art, before the exhibit closes this Sunday afternoon. Please check @carriagebarnartscenter website for hours of operation.

#studentart #socialjustice #fairfieldcounty

Missed the opening reception for the Fairfield County Student Social Justice Art Showcase??

Come check out the art from 82 students representing 26 different schools across lower Fairfield County at the Carriage Barn in New Canaan now through Sunday, 12/16!

Students from age three through college created art and shared the social justice story behind their art. Their stories help create conversation about what’s on the mind of students in our community today. Just a sampling shown here. Please check Carriage Barn website for hours of operation. #Socialjustice #studentart

TOMORROW!!

Come join us at the opening reception of the Fairfield County student social justice art showcase which will be at the Carriage Barn from 1 to 3 PM tomorrow Saturday, November 8. This art showcase celebrates how art and design can inspire conversation about social justice.

This year, a record-breaking 82 students will be showing their art. The students are from all over Fairfield County, ranging in age from pre-school through college. Each student shared the meaning of their art for attendees to read at the exhibit.

Students from the following schools are participating: Brien McMahon High School, Capital Prep Harbor School, Capital Prep Harbor Upper School, Cider Mill School, Connecticut College, Drexel University (Graduate of Stamford High School), Greenwich High School, Interlochen Arts Academy, J.M. Wright Technical High School, King School, Miller-Driscoll School, Nathan Hale Middle School, New Canaan Country School, New Canaan High School, Ponus Ridge Middle School, Rogers International School, Roton Middle School, Saxe Middle School, Silvermine Elementary School, Stillmeadow Elementary School, Stamford High School, Temple Israel Westport: Early Childhood Center (Preschool), The Spire School, West Elementary School, West Rocks Middle School, and Westhill High School. We thank them all for sharing their art and thoughts.

There will be live music from a fun New Canaan and Darien jazz duo with refreshments generously donated, in part, by Wegmans in Norwalk.

So please stop by to celebrate these young artists and learn from their vision. Event is free and open to the public.

Another look at the Runway by S.T.A.R event. Many friends and neighbors modeled. Maybe you’ll see a familiar face?! Take a look! And see comments for list of those who made all this possible. Many thanks to all involved.

Looking forward to seeing everyone who can make it in-person starting next Monday, October 27, at the New Canaan Library in room #219 or via Zoom.

Per the NYT, “the novel is a re-imagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain but narrated by Huckleberry’s friend on his travels, the fugitive slave Jim, rather than by Huck, as in the original. The novel won the 2024 Kirkus Prize, the National Book Award for Fiction, and the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.”

We hold book club meetings in chapters starting at 6:30 pm each meeting. :
October 27 - Chapters 1-7
November 3 - Chapters 8-16
November 10 - Chapters 17-24
November 17 - Chapters 25-32
November 24 - Part 1
December 1 - Part 2

The library has a couple of books on hand for those who don’t have them.

The books are located under the book group’s name (STAR Book Club) on the lower shelves of the HOLDING area at the library.

The book needs to be checked out by a librarian, and cannot be put on hold.

See you there for a lively discussion.

The Runway by S.T.A.R videos are in!! Credit: @readyrock_dot

Take a look and more to come! We have so many fabulous and generous people and organizations who made this event a success. The audience walked away with a new understanding off fashion’s role in community and culture. Representation and inclusion matter!

THANK YOU! THANK YOU, ALL!!

More art from our Fairfield County Student Social Justice Art Showcase student ambassadors...students who participated last year and are returning this year!

Students- art is due 11/2 and the and the Opening Reception is 11/8! Pre-register today, even if art isn’t ready, to learn more and get important updates!! Link is in bio.
All are welcome to attend the Opening Reception on 11/8 from 1-3pm.

King School elementary student siblings shared their art and stories last year…

Clyde David xxx
Black Boy Magic
Painting - Sharpie, tempra paint, Posca paint pens, tape

My artwork supports Black Boys showing pride in who they are and how they look, including their hair. I am proud of my curts and I wanted to show that in my portrait. I chose this topic because I want all Black Boys, like me, to be proud of themselves. I believe we can do anything we want to do, and be anything we want to be. This is meaningful to me because I am a Black Boy, and I am Smart, I am Black, and I am Courageous. I also know that there are times when Black people are not treated fairly and I want everyone to be treated the right way.

Cordelia Lee xxx
Black Girl Magic
Painting - Sharpie, tempra paint, Posca paint, tape

My artwork is advocating for all the Black Girls, Just like me, I chose this topic because some people belleve that Black people are not beautiful or smart, just because of the color of our skin.
This topic is meaningful to me because I want to show that Black people are just as smart and beautful as anyone else.

Runway by S.T.A.R – Connecting Threads, the Fabric of Us ✨

“Runway by STAR – Connecting Threads, the Fabric of Us” is an inspiring event, in partnership with RED School of Fashion in Norwalk CT, dedicated to uniting the worlds of fashion, culture, and social impact. 🌍✨ This gathering celebrates how individuality and diversity come together to create something truly extraordinary, a tapestry woven from every experience, culture, and story. 🧵💫

The event features innovative runway presentations, dynamic panel discussions, and interactive experiences that spotlight multicultural influences, body diversity, and authentic representation in design. 💃🎤 Designers and thought leaders will explore what it means to make fashion accessible, inclusive, and reflective of real communities. 🤝🌈

True to our theme, “Connecting Threads, the Fabric of Us,” the event also addresses the vital role of sustainability. 🌱♻️ Attendees will discover conversations and showcases on minimizing fashion’s environmental impact and championing responsible, ethical practices. 🌿✨

Join “Runway by STAR” and become part of a movement that uplifts voices, builds bridges, and redefines what it means for fashion to truly connect us all. 🌟🤝

📅 October 10 | 6:00 PM
📍 Waveny House – New Canaan, CT

🎟 Get Your Tickets:
Secure your spot today 👇
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/runway-by-star-connecting-threads-the-fabric-of-us-tickets-1686094356609?aff=oddtdtcreator

#RunwayBySTAR #ConnectingThreads #FashionForChange #InclusiveFashion #SustainableStyle #FashionEvents #SocialImpact #STA#DiversityInFashion #FashionCommunity #CultureThroughFashion #EthicalFashion #BodyDiversity #FashionRevolution #NewCanaanEvents #SupportLocalEvents #STAR #WavenyHouse #NewCanaan #CT #Canaanite #Walterstuartmarket #Bankwell #NEFDA #Rosie’s

More highlights of art from our Fairfield County Student
Social Justice Art Showcase student ambassadors...students who
participated last year and are returning this year! Check back for more inspiring art!

Students- art is due 11/2 and the Opening Reception is 11/8! Pre-register today, even if art isn’t ready, to learn more and get important updates!!
Link is in bio.

All are welcome to attend the Opening Reception on 11/8 from 1-3pm.

There is no cost to participate or attend.

Brooke and Max
West Elementary School, New Canaan

Gordo the Giving Tree
Acrylic paint, cardboard and recycled Minecraft party decorations

Gordo is inspired by the 1964 book ‘The Giving Tree’ by Shel Silverstein. While there are many themes in the book, we have based our piece on the prevailing theme of giving—or generosity. By asking viewers how they too can be generous to others, our artwork aims to provoke thought around how giving and doing for others is part of social justice.

Meet the designer fashion brands to be featured on the runway at “Runway by S.T.A.R - Connecting Threads. the Fabric of Us” to be held at Waveny House in New Canaan on Friday, October 10 from 6-9pm. The event features a cocktail reception followed by a panel discussion and live runway show that celebrates inclusivity, multicultural influence, body and disability diversity, and sustainability.

Visit our website to learn more about these visionary fashion leaders who will wow attendees with their extraordinary inclusive fashion, and learn more about our panelists, and the models who hail from Fairfield County!

Come be inspired! Ticket link in bio or on our website.

@eukari.official @officialrondyce @senseational_you @janetsfashionflips @karlenelindsaydesigns @cardiccicouture @nbynancy @rosienewcanaan @walterstewartsmarket @stewartswines @mionettoproseccousa @mybankwell @newcanaanite @wavenyhousevents @claireayoub @the.redfashion_school @facesofbeautymodelteam @t.a.o.promotionalmodelagency @ocafc

“As the vibrant tapestry of Latine Heritage Month unfolds each year from September 15 to October 15, we are invited to celebrate the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the fabric of our nation. This annual observance serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural vibrancy, historical resilience, and enduring hope that define Hispanic communities, particularly in the midst of today’s complex socio-political landscape.

Across the United States, Latine Heritage Month is commemorated through a kaleidoscope of cultural events, educational programs, and artistic expressions. Festivals featuring traditional music, dance, and cuisine offer a sensory immersion into Hispanic culture. Museums and libraries curate exhibitions showcasing the historical and artistic achievements of Latine Americans. Schools and universities organize lectures and workshops to deepen understanding of Latine heritage.”

Copy source: https://cssh.northeastern.edu/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-a-tapestry-of-culture-resilience-hope/

We’ll be highlighting some of the art from our Fairfield County Student Social Justice Art Showcase student ambassadors…students who participated last year and are returning this year! Check back for more inspiring art!

Students- art is due 11/2 and the and the Opening Reception is 11/8! Pre-register today, even if art isn’t ready, to learn more and get important updates!! Link is in bio.

All are welcome to attend the Opening Reception on 11/8 from 1-3pm.

Ava
New Canaan Country School

fREADOm
Water Color

My piece is about book banning. Behind the girl are titles of children’s books that have been banned for a number of irrelevant reasons. So many books are banned in the US because they are deemed offensive, just because they depict different types of people and communities. Literary censorship, especially when it comes to children’s books, leaves people uneducated. Books are for everyone to enjoy, and the content inside them doesn’t change that,

✨ Runway by S.T.A.R – Connecting Threads, the Fabric of Us ✨
Uniting the worlds of fashion, culture, and social impact. 🌍✨

👗 Meet Our Panelists

🎤 Moderator: Professor Kyle Farmer ma(rca) – Renowned designer & educator at Red Fashion School. Kyle will guide the evening’s dynamic panel discussions, bringing his international experience and deep understanding of fashion’s cultural impact to the conversation.

💫 Claire Ayoub – Award-winning producer/director of Empire Waist, shining a comedic light on womanhood and body positivity.

💫 RONDYCE (Ron Dyce) – Hw is a New York-based fashion designer and entrepreneur redefining modern luxury. Dyce’s work has been featured in Vogue, Forbes, and Marie Claire. he continues to merge fashion, culture, and innovation under one bold vision.

💫 Julia DeNey – Founder of Sense-ational You, adaptive clothing for children with Autism, creating comfort and inclusion.

💫 Chǔ Chǔ – Co-founder of Eukari, blending Asian heritage and modern style so women can look and feel confident at work.

💫 Joanne (Jojo) Lacrete – Visionary designer from RED School of Fashion Association, pioneering sustainable, up-cycled fashion.

📅 Date & Time: October 10 | 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Waveny House – New Canaan, CT
🎟 Buy your tickets today! (link in bio)

Be part of a movement that uplifts voices, celebrates individuality, and redefines fashion’s role in community and culture. 💫

#RunwayBySTAR #ConnectingThreads #FashionForChange #InclusiveFashion #SustainableStyle #FashionEvents #SocialImpact #STAREvents #DiversityInFashion #FashionCommunity #CultureThroughFashion #EthicalFashion #BodyDiversity #FashionRevolution #NewCanaanEvents #SupportLocalEvents #STAR #WavenyHouse #NewCanaan #CT #Canaanite #Walterstuartmarket #Bankwell #NEFDA #Rosies

Learn all about the upcoming S.T.A.R Fashion show on 10/10and the Fairfield County Student Social Justice Arts Showcase. See some student art from prior years for inspiration. School of Rock music nearby and check out the inspiring youth entrepreneurs! The weather is incredible!!

✨ Runway by S.T.A.R – Connecting Threads, the Fabric of Us ✨

Uniting the worlds of fashion, culture, and social impact. 🌍✨

👗 What to Expect:
✨ Live Fashion Runway Show featuring innovative designs
✨ Dynamic Panel Discussions on diversity, inclusion & representation
✨ Interactive Experiences highlighting body diversity & cultural influences
✨ Sustainability Conversations on reducing fashion’s environmental impact

📅 Date & Time: October 10 | 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Waveny House – New Canaan, CT

🎟 How to Get Tickets:
Purchase your tickets directly through Eventbrite — just click the link below 👇
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/runway-by-star-connecting-threads-the-fabric-of-us-tickets-1686094356609?aff=oddtdtcreator

Be part of a movement that uplifts voices, celebrates individuality, and redefines fashion’s role in community and culture. 💫

#RunwayBySTAR #ConnectingThreads #FashionForChange #InclusiveFashion #SustainableStyle #FashionEvents #SocialImpact #STAREvents #DiversityInFashion #FashionCommunity #CultureThroughFashion #EthicalFashion #BodyDiversity #FashionRevolution #NewCanaanEvents #SupportLocalEvents #STAR #WavenyHouse #NewCanaan #CT #Canaanite #Walterstuartmarket #Bankwell #NEFDA #Rosie’s

Mark your calendar for the Waveny Arts Festival, Sunday, September 28, an annual outdoor event organized by the Carriage Barn Arts Center with New Canaan’s Parks and Recreation Department. It features dozens of artists and artisan vendors, live music, food trucks, children’s activities, and a special marketplace for young entrepreneurs. It’s always packed!!

Stop by the S.T.A.R booth near the Carriage Barn where you can learn more about the 4th Annual Fairfield County Student Social Justice Art Showcase, put on in partnership with @theglasshouse_newcanaan and @carriagebarnartscenter. Nearly 100 students are expected to participate this year from all over Fairfield County! Student art is due 11/2 and the Opening Reception is 11/8. Free to participate and attend!

You can also learn more about S.T.A.R’s exciting fashion event at Waveny House to be held 10/10 at 6pm.

Check out the super fun Waveny Arts Festival and we hope to meet you there!!

FASHION WITH A PURPOSE. - S.T.A.R invites you to a bold celebration of inclusion, culture and community through fashion on Friday, October 10 at 6 PM at the beautiful Waveny House in New Canaan

Fashion is more than what we wear. It’s also who we are. This will be an insightful and invigorating fashion event that uses the runway with panel discussions to champion the voices reshaping fashion today.

The evening will bring together trailblazer designers changemakers, and community leaders for an immersive experience that celebrates multicultural influence, body positivity, and ethical/sustainable fashion.

The event underscores a growing movement in fashion where every size, background and voice has a place.

Join us at 6pm for cocktails and nibbles followed by conversation and a live runway show. Visit our website or see the link in our bio to buy tickets today!

✨ 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝘂𝗻𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗯𝘆 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥 – 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘀, 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗰 𝗼𝗳 𝗨𝘀 ✨

An inspiring event uniting fashion, culture & social impact. 💫

This one-of-a-kind gathering celebrates individuality, diversity & sustainability—creating a tapestry woven from every story, culture & experience. 🌍👗

🌟 What to expect:
✨ Innovative Fashion presentation
✨ Dynamic panel discussions
✨ Interactive experiences
✨ Authentic representation in design
✨ A focus on sustainability & ethical practices

Join us as designers & thought leaders explore inclusivity, body diversity, multicultural influences & responsible fashion. Together, we’re redefining what it means for fashion to truly connect us all. 💕

📅 Save the Date: October 10, 2025
📍 Waveny House, New Canaan, CT

#RunwayBySTAR #ConnectingThreads #FabricOfUs
#InclusiveFashion #DiversityInFashion #FashionForChange
#SustainableStyle #MulticulturalFashion #FashionUnity #EthicalFashion

Happy back to school to all our artists!

Here’s some inspiration from last year’s student art showcase for anyone considering participating this year! This art was created by kids of all ages from across Fairfield County. Each piece has a written story about what their art means and why their chosen social justice topic is important.

See the Pre-registration Form link in our bio to learn more and register today!! Art not due until 11/2 so plenty of time! Any questions, please DM!

S.T.A.R, in partnership with @theglasshouse_newcanaan and @carriagebarnartscenter invites students of all ages in any Fairfield County town to create art on a topic that matters to them! This is not a competition and all art will be featured at a fun opening reception on 11/8! Plenty of time to create art before the 11/2 art due date.

Need some inspiration for social justice ideas? See our website to see examples of what kids have done in the past!

Don’t miss out! Check out our website link in our bio above to learn more and to to pre-register! There is no cost to participate or attend the reception. .

Never too early to get a head start!!

S.T.A.R, in partnership with @theglasshouse_newcanaan and @carriagebarnartscenter , is excited to invite students to participate in the fourth annual Fairfield County Student Social Justice Art Showcase. This event celebrates how art, design, and architecture can inspire conversations about social justice. This is not a competition and ALL art is featured at a fun Opening Reception in November!

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
All students from K-college, from any town in Fairfield County, CT, are welcome! Students share their creativity by submitting artwork that reflects a social justice topic that’s important to them.

WHAT KIND OF ART CAN BE SUBMITTED?
We welcome all forms of art, including paintings, drawings, and photography, mixed media and sculpture, videos (including TikTok-style) and even architectural designs.

When art is ready, students give it a name and write a short description explaining what their art and social justice topic means to them and why it’s important. This description will be displayed alongside their art in the gallery.

Scan the QR code or see link in our bio for more information and to pre-register so we know you or your child plans to participate!!

DM us on social if you have any questions. We can’t wait to see this year’s Art and read the stories behind the art!!!!

Inspiring talk at New Canaan Library with Rita Daniels, descendant of Harriet Tubman, in conversation with Mendi Blue Paca, CEO & President of the Fairfield County Community Foundation. Earlier, Daniels shared Tubman stories with kids who then created Juneteenth-themed art.

Join us at the New Canaan Library at 6:30pm this Tuesday where Rita Daniels, great-great-great grandniece of Harriet Tubman, will share a fuller picture of this inspiring and illuminating key figure in our history. Daniels will be in conversation with Mendi Blue Paca, President & CEO of the Fairfield County Community Foundation.

There’s also a separate program for children (K-5) at 4-5pm at the library where Daniels will share stories and the kids can do a Juneteenth-themed art project!

Both free events require registration. See links in bio.

See you on Tuesday!

#newcanaan #fairfieldcountyct #harriettubman #authortalk

The weather remarkably held out for yesterday’s Juneteenth celebration on the lawn at @newcanaanmuseum. Many pics to follow but before heading into the weekend we wanted to send our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors/supporters at @mybankwell, @theglasshouse_newcanaan, @newcanaanlibrary, @newcanaanite, @nchs.slobs and @newcanaanrotary.

Also thanks to numerous individual volunteers who helped immensely, @newcanaanpolice for assisting with the flag raising, @stmarksnewcanaan for allowing guest parking, @connectgodsacre for the table borrows, and @newcanaanmuseum for our 4th year at their beautiful setting.

We also thank @townofnewcanaan for recognizing this federal and state holiday on a local level with a town Juneteenth proclamation from First Selectman Dionna Carlson. (Town offices were closed in celebration. )

Last, but not least, thank you to our guests from New Canaan and beyond who made this such a special afternoon.

Curious about the “Hearts of Freedom” Juneteenth celebration on Thursday, June 19 from 3-7pm at the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society in New Canaan??!?

Scroll through pics to see just some of the things we have in store for you! More when you get there! Free and fun for all ages!

Please be sure to register so we have enough supplies! Link is in bio!

See you on Juneteenth!

#juneteenth #newcanaan #fairfieldcountyct #stamfordct #norwalkct #darien @newcanaanlibrary @studio162design @29marklefoodtruck @29marklectbpt
@tis_ct @sandrasnextgeneration @missthelmas @chazzielemonadeslushiez @walterstewartsmarket @mybankwell @theglasshouse_newcanaan @newcanaanite @newcanaanrotary

NEW addition to the food truck line up at the Juneteenth Community Celebration on Thursday, 6/19 from 3-7pm!!!

Highly celebrated 29 Markle Ct. out of Bridgeport will be bringing its new food truck to New Canaan alongside amazing returning food trucks, Miss Thelma’s Soul Food, Tropical Island Spice, and more! 😋

“29 Markle Food Truck brings the same passion for simple, delicious, and high-quality food that made its parent restaurant, 29 Markle Ct in Bridgeport, CT, a Connecticut favorite. Chef and co-owner Damon Daye Sawyer, along with his dedicated team, ensures that their new food truck concept stays true to its roots while maintaining the highest standards. From the mouthwatering Korean fried chicken sandwich to tender braised BBQ short ribs served over fries sourced from Fossil Farms, every dish is crafted with love.”

Don’t miss out! And stay tuned to learn more about the other food trucks. Food always sells out!

Register today (link in bio) and come hungry!

@29marklectbpt @29marklefoodtruck @insider_ct @craziesawards @missthelmas @tis_ct @infatuation_nyc @newcanaanctpatch @newcanaanite @stamfordadvocate #juneteenth @norwalkhour #fairfieldcountyct #bridgeportct #newcanaan #alwayswithlove @sandrasnextgeneration

🎉 The countdown continues!
We’re just 12 days away from S.T.A.R.’s 4th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration — a vibrant afternoon of music, culture, food, and art! 🖤❤️💚

✨ Featuring live music by The Misfits
🎨 Community mural led by Laren Clayton
🍗 Soul + Caribbean food trucks
📍 New Canaan Museum & Historical Society

🎟️ Free to attend — but RSVP is requested so we have enough supplies!!
👉 Link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LsSuxuplvq9-3-ywukimbrY1878RgHE_KJTh94e34pU/viewform?edit_requested=true

#Juneteenth2025 #JuneteenthCelebration #STARJuneteenth #NewCanaanCT #CommunityVibes #SupportBlackCulture #LiveMusicEvent #TheMisfitsBand #LarenClayton #FreedomDay #CelebrateTogether #ArtAndSoul #RSVPNow #FreeEvent #CountdownToJuneteenth #standtogetheragainstracism #STAR

🎨 Community Art in Action!

Join us on June 19th from 3–7 PM for S.T.A.R.’s 4th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration — featuring muralist and graphic designer Laren Clayton, bringing art to life right on the lawn!

✨ Live Music by The Misfits
🍗 Soul & Caribbean Food Trucks
🎨 Collaborative Community Art
📍 New Canaan Museum & Historical Society

🎟️ Free event — registration required!
👉 Tap here to RSVP now:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LsSuxuplvq9-3-ywukimbrY1878RgHE_KJTh94e34pU/viewform?edit_requested=true

#Juneteenth2025 #JuneteenthCelebration #NewCanaanCT #CommunityArt #LiveMusic #FreedomDay #SupportBlackArtists #LarenClayton #TheMisfitsBand #CelebrateFreedom #STARJuneteenth #FreeEvent #SoulFoodVibes

Join us on June 24th for a one-of-a-kind journey through shared history! Explore Harriet Tubman's remarkable life and legacy with her descendant, author Rita Daniels. Register now! Free. Link in bio!

🌿 Finding Olmsted: A Search for a Practice of Landscape Architecture in Cotton's Kingdom
Join The Glass House for a compelling lecture by renowned landscape architect and Harvard professor Sara Zewde, as she explores Frederick Law Olmsted’s journey through the Slave South and the roots of landscape architecture that shaped American design.

🗓️ Monday, June 9
🕡 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 New Canaan Library – Jim & Dede Bartlett Auditorium
🎟️ This is a free event, but registration is required.

🔗 Register here: https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/event/hold-glass-house-presents-sarah-zewde-landscape-architect-132376
We’re proud to help promote this important event.

#SaraZewde #FindingOlmsted #TheGlassHouse #NewCanaanLibrary #LandscapeArchitecture #StudioZewde #DesignMatters #FreeEvent #NewCanaanCT #PublicLecture #HarvardGSD #PartnerEvent @theglasshouse_newcanaan @newcanaanlibrary

🎨✨ We’re thrilled to spotlight Lauren Clayton, a talented artist, muralist, and the founder of Studio 162, for our 2025 Juneteenth celebration! Based in Stamford, CT, Lauren’s work explores themes of identity, community, and impact through bold colors and intricate designs. Her art has graced exhibitions from the Tri-state to Miami during Art Week.

As a passionate mentor and community advocate, Lauren uses her creative business to support nonprofits and emerging artists. Join us as we celebrate her inspiring contributions to both the art world and her community. 🙌 @studio162design
#HeartsOfFreedom2025 #Juneteenth2025 #ArtForChange #LaurenClayton #STAR-CT #SupportLocalArtists #StandThogetherAgainstRacism

🎭 Cultural Showcase: An Afternoon of Asian Culture
🗓️ Friday, May 31 | 2:00 – 5:00 PM
📍 CT State Community College, Norwalk Campus
Join us for an immersive afternoon celebrating music, dance, and food from across Asia!
Performances include:
🎵 Traditional music and dances from China, Japan, and India
🍴 A cultural reception with appetizers from each featured country
Get tickets: https://ow.ly/vMyz50VVlWK family-friendly event is free and open to all — come celebrate the richness of AAPI culture with us! #AAHNPI #AAPI @OCANational @OCAFC @apac_ct

✨ Today, we honor the 100th anniversary of Malcolm X’s birth ✨
Born May 19, 1925, Malcolm X—El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz—remains a towering figure in the fight for Black empowerment, justice, and truth.

🖤 “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” — Malcolm X

Let us reflect, remember, and recommit to the work.
#MalcolmX100 #MalcolmXLegacy #BlackHistory #RacialJustice #HonoringTheLegacy

May 12 – May 31, 2025
A celebration of culture through cuisine!

Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz proclaimed Connecticut’s first-ever AAPI Restaurant Weeks on Thursday, May 8. Select AAPI-owned restaurants across the state will feature signature dishes, drinks, and exclusive specials honoring the culinary diversity of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. https://ow.ly/BKqV50VUiVi
👉 Dine local, support AAPI: Don’t miss the incredible flavors at New Canaan Curry Mango! Here ias the link to the directory of participating restaurants #AAPI #AAHNPI #CurryMangoCT @OCANational @OCAFC @apac_ct #NewCanaan #NewCanaanfood

🍜 AAPI Restaurant Weeks
🗓️ May 12 – May 31, 2025

Select Asian restaurants throughout Connecticut have signed on to participate, each offering a special dish, drink, or promotion to celebrate AAPI cuisine. https://ow.ly/eGNv50VUj2f
📌 Savor authentic Thai cuisine at Greenwich Thai Basil — and show love to local AAPI-owned restaurants! #ThaiBasil #AAPI #AAHNPI @thaibasilofgreenwich @OCANational @OCAFC @apac_ct #Greenwich #Greenwichfood

🚤 An Evening with Vicky Nguyen

Join us for a powerful, moving, and often humorous evening with NBC’s Vicky Nguyen as she shares Boat Baby: A Memoir — a story of her family’s harrowing escape from Vietnam and her own journey from refugee to nationally recognized journalist.

🗓️ Thursday, May 8
⏰ 7:00 – 8:00 PM
📍 Jim & Dede Bartlett Auditorium, New Canaan Library
🎙️ In conversation with Anna Kai

This special event is part of our AAPI Heritage Month celebration and co-sponsored by AAPI Westport & OCA Fairfield County.

📖 Books available for sale & signing by Elm Street Books.

✨ Registration required → Link in bio (https://www.newcanaanlibrary.org/event/hold-vicky-nguyen-aapi-month-136154)

#BoatBaby #VickyNguyen #AAPIHeritageMonth #AuthorEvent #Memoir #CommunityReads #NewCanaanLibrary #STANDTogether #standtogetheragainstracism

Check out the May edition of @dariennewcanaanlifestylemag to learn more about S.T.A.R’s founder, @fbaniang, along with three other amazing local women who are making a difference in our community through “creativity, leadership, and connection. “

If you have not had the pleasure of meeting Fatou in person, please be sure to stop by S.T.A.R’s annual Juneteenth celebration on June 19th on the lawn of the @newcanaanmuseum. More details to follow!!

(Photo credits to Abby Cole Photography)

🎉 Soul•Fête 2025: A Night to Remember! 🎉

From mouthwatering dishes to soulful tunes, Soul•Fête was a beautiful celebration of Black excellence, culture, and community. 🌟

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and to those who made this unforgettable evening possible. Until next year… 💫

#SoulFête #BlackExcellence #CommunityCelebration #FoodMusicCulture #standtogetheragainstracism

🌟 Heartfelt Thanks to Our Incredible Sponsors! 🌟

Soul•Fête wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our amazing sponsors. Your contributions help us celebrate Black excellence, culture, and cuisine while continuing S.T.A.R.’s mission of promoting equity and inclusion in our community.

A special thank you to:
@mybankwell
@mionettoproseccousa
@stewartswines
@ctbites
@newcanaanite
... and many more incredible partners who help make this event unforgettable.

Your support means the world to us, and we are grateful for your commitment to making a difference. 🙏

#SoulFête #ThankYouSponsors #CommunitySupport #standtogetheragainstracism #blackexcellence

Tomorrow night, at Soul-Fete, Wednesday 2/26, our guests can enjoy the SOLD OUT @athleticbrewing Soul Sour which is “a fierce and fruit-forward Sour brew crafted annually in honor of Black History Month. It features the vibrant flavors of blueberry, lemon, and mango and offers a smooth, sweet nose and bright, tart body. Delicately sour but exceedingly crisp, it’s refreshing on both palate and soul.” and is alcohol-free.

See link in our IG bio to snag some last minute tix for tomorrow night at Carriage Barn in New Canaan at 6pm. Sit down dinner, live music from The Misfits! Mionetto Spritz and bourbon tasting from CT’s own @nineteen70something_bourbon. Get those dancin’ shoes ready! Link in bio for tix!!

Excited to introduce the chef for Soul-Fete, @dr_wilhoite2 , who will wow you with an amazing menu while you dance to the rhythm of Fairfield County’s own band, The Misfits, and experience tastings from @nineteen70something_bourbon and Mionetto Spritz (including alcohol-removed.)

Wednesday, 2/26 from. 6-9:30pm at @carriagebarnartscenter.

Don’t miss out! Book your tickets today on the S.T.A.R website or see link in our Instagram bio.

Many thanks to @ctbites, @stewartswines, @newcanaanite, @mybankwell and Mionetto for your continued support!!

Join us in celebrating Black Excellence Month! S.T.A.R. is proud to announce the return of Soul •Fête: A Culinary Immersion, honoring the incredible contributions of Black chefs and artists who continue to shape American culture in extraordinary ways.

Indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience curated by Dr. Chef Alexandria Wilhoite, and immerse yourself in a night of culture, community, and celebration. Dance to live music from The Misfits and enjoy a tasting from @nineteen70something_bourbon !!

🗓️ Mark your calendars!
📍 Carriage Barn Arts Center, New Canaan ⏰ Wednesday, February 26th | 6:00 PM -
9:30 PM

Get your tickets now at www.STAR-
CT.ORG. See link in bio!

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Today marks the start of Black History Month.

The 2025 Black History Month theme is “African Americans and Labor” which seeks to highlight and honor the diverse ways Black individuals have shaped labor practices, fought for workers’ rights, and contributed to the broader struggles for justice and equality.

In honor of Black History Month, which we prefer to call Black Excellence Month, S.T.A.R is pleased to announce the return of Soul-Fete, a culinary immersion, which will bring the community together to honor the contributions of Black chefs and artists who continue to shape American culture in extraordinary ways.
Go to www.STAR-CT.ORG Purchase your tickets

More details to follow for this fabulous event, but in the meantime, mark your calendar for Wednesday, February 26th from 6pm-9:30pm at @carriagebarnartscenter !! We can’t wait to see you!!!

🌟 Thank You for an Amazing Day! 🌟

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who joined us at the New Canaan YMCA for the MLK Jr. Community Building Activity. 🙌

The turnout, creativity, and energy were truly inspiring.

Stay tuned for photos from our events in Wilton – you won’t want to miss them! 📸✨

#MLKDay2025 #CommunityBuilding #InfiniteHope #Gratitude #MLKDayOfService #bridgeportymca #standtogetheragainstracism #newcanaanymca #wiltonymca

🌟 What an incredible day! 🌟

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who joined us yesterday at the Bridgeport YMCA for the MLK Jr. Community Building Activity. 🙌

The turnout, creativity, and energy were truly inspiring. We are so grateful to the Bridgeport YMCA for hosting us for the second year in a row and to @wakemanbgc for helping make this event a success!

Special shoutout to these amazing kids from Wakeman Boys and Girls Club:
💫 Jayden, Reece, Oliver, Owen, Bea, and Daniel – your enthusiasm and energy made the day even brighter!

Stay tuned for photos from our events in New Canaan and Wilton – you won’t want to miss them! 📸✨

#MLKDay2025 #CommunityBuilding #InfiniteHope #Gratitude #MLKDayOfService #bridgeportymca #standtogetheragainstracism

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"Hearts of Freedom" Juneteenth Celebration 2025
Thursday June 19th - 3-7PM

Our 2024 Juneteenth Celebration was a massive success! Thank you so much to the hundreds of community members who attended. Video and pictures are by Javan Mitchell @jav.media