Gunfire Doesn’t Stop ‘Hug The Block’ Celebration In Newark

NEWARK, NJ — It was proof that a hug is more powerful than a gunshot, advocates say.

Another year of “H.U.G. the Block (Heal, Unite and Grow)” returned to the Clinton Hill section of Newark on Sept. 11, inspiring community spirit and unity among neighbors.

Founded in 2012 by Newark’s newly instated poet laureate, Margie “Mia X” Johnson, this year’s annual celebration included performances from local entertainers, yoga, art, a catwalk down Clinton Avenue and a huge “healing circle” that converged at Clinton Avenue and South 10th Street for a group hug.

The celebration almost didn’t happen this year, organizers said.

The night before, police responded to a shots-fired incident on Clinton Avenue that left several vehicles damaged. Out of concern for resident safety, authorities recommended that the event be canceled. But after having a heartfelt conversation, organizers decided that the shooting showed exactly why the event is needed – and moved forward with the celebration.

They’re glad they did, Johnson said.

“Hug the Block was more than an event – it was a declaration of love, resilience and unity,” Johnson said. “On a block touched by violence the night before, our community came together with art, dance, music, and healing to transform pain into joy.”

“We showed that Newark shines brightest when we celebrate, protect, and uplift one another,” Johnson added.

This year’s H.U.G. The Block was presented as an ArtsXChange in collaboration with Clinton Hill Community Action and NJPAC’s community engagement department, with support from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, the Department of Community Affairs, The Regional Foundation, and the Dodge Foundation.

• See Related: ‘24 Hours Of Peace’ Returns To Newark With Music, Unity, Love (PHOTOS)

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