Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality

No Slave Trail Commission Meeting in August. July 22 press release announces commission has 5 open seats, APPLICATIONS  due September 1. Community Organizing Committee meeting for August to be announced. July 25: DefendersLIVE features new issue of Virginia Defender with guest, editor Phil Wilayto - listen online at WRIR.org or by radio at 97.3 lp FM, 12noon Mondays (follow on facebook, too) ACTIONS August 13: Millions March in Harlem August 19-21: Black Freedom Weekend / Happily Natural Day August 20-21: Down Home Family Reunion August 20: Nationwide Day of Action on The Other Wars August 30: Gabriel's Rebellion Day - 207th anniversary of the planned date for this insurrection. SAVE THE DATE: October 10, 2011 - A special celebration for Richmond's African Burial Ground at this year's commemoration!

The city will open three cooling shelters to assist residents with today’s high temperatures.   City cooling shelters are opened when the temperature and/or heat index reaches or exceeds the 95 degree mark.  City cooling shelters will open from noon to 5 p.m. today and are located at:             ● Southside Community Center, 4100 Hull Street Road             ● Department of Social Services, 900 East Marshall Street             ● East District Center, 701 North 25 th  Street Bottled water will be available, but food will not be provided . Pets, with the exception of service animals, are not allowed. All residents should take measures to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat during the day. For more information regarding cooling services, residents can contact the Department of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office at (804) 646-7046. Elderly residents with heat related issues can contact the Adult Protective Service Unit at (804) 646-7367. In the event of a heat r