Amplify Documentary
In celebration of Juneteenth, the NAACP Pasadena Branch and Victory Bible Church are hosting an evening of remembrance, resilience, and dialogue through a special event titled AMPLIFY: A Juneteenth Screening & Community Conversation.
By News Desk
At the heart of the evening is a screening of Amplify, a 38-minute oral history documentary that chronicles the lived experiences of Pasadena residents displaced by the construction of the SR-710 freeway. Through deeply personal accounts, the film confronts the long-standing effects of systemic racism, housing injustice, and the generational impact of displacement in the city.
Among the voices featured is Alison Moses, a lifelong member of First AME Church and descendant of displaced residents. “My grandfather, Brockwood Grant, was a member of First AME when our family was displaced from Vernon Avenue. First AME was also displaced during the 710 freeway construction,” she shared. Moses’ reflections underscore how the freeway project tore apart not only neighborhoods but also spiritual and familial roots.
Brandon Lamar, President of the NAACP Pasadena Branch, highlighted the significance of community gatherings at a time when tensions are high. “This Juneteenth event is more than a screening. It’s an opportunity for Pasadena and Altadena residents to be in community, to gather in solidarity, and to heal together,” he said. “In moments like these, unity isn’t optional—it’s essential.”
The evening’s program begins with opening remarks from Tina Williams, Board Member of The Center for Restorative Justice and Chair of Pasadena’s 710 Restorative Justice Standing Committee. Williams has been instrumental in pushing the city toward acknowledging and addressing the historical harm caused by the freeway expansion. Under her leadership, the committee recently adopted a new definition of restorative justice that aims to guide the city’s planning process for the 710 freeway ‘stub.’ “I wanted those statements to be quite clear,” Williams said, “and I wanted them written in such a way that they leave the door open to address many of the harms that have been caused.”
Following the film screening, a moderated panel discussion and audience Q&A will feature directly impacted community members sharing their stories and insights. The evening will close with a call to action from Dr. Gilbert Walton, encouraging attendees to engage in ongoing civic efforts including participation in:
- The 710 Restorative Justice Standing Committee (1st Wednesdays)
- The 710 Reconnecting Communities Advisory Group (3rd Wednesdays)
Public comments and community input are welcomed via email at: 710Reconnecting@cityofpasadena.net
For those unable to attend in person, Amplify is available for online viewing at bit.ly/AmplifyFilm.
Amplify - Juneteenth Thursday, June 13 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Location 1497 N. Hill Ave. Pasadena, CA 91104
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