This unforgettable gathering brings together Texas House Representative & Democratic Chair Gene Wu (District 137) for a powerful fireside chat on identity, solidarity, and the fight for equity across racial and generational lines. We'll dive into topics ranging from affirmative action, meritocracy, and the lasting impact of solidarity work - critical conversations that shape our communities and futures.

Then, it’s time to let loose and move! 🎶💃🏻🕺🏽 Get ready for a high-energy K-Pop dance session, the perfect way to celebrate AAPI Heritage & Mental Health Awareness Month - helping students de-stress during finals, embracing the global impact of Korean pop culture, and giving us all a chance to shake off the socio-political divisiveness and move in solidarity.

Anticipated Agenda:

⭐ 1:30pm Doors Open & Networking & Community Marketplace
⭐ 2:00pm Welcome +  Fireside chat with Rep. Gene Wu
⭐ 3:00pm KPop Dance Demonstration + CommUNITY Lesson
⭐ 3:45pm Networking & Community Marketplace 

Bios:
Rep. Gene Wu serves District 137 in the Texas House. A former Harris County prosecutor, he focuses on improving the lives of Texas children through juvenile justice reform and CPS improvements. Now in his 7th term, he serves as Vice Chair of the House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence and Chairman of the Texas House Democratic Caucus. Outside his legislative work, Gene remains active and involved in the Houston community. Gene currently serves on community advocacy organization boards such as the OCA-Greater Houston Advisory Board, the Chinese Community Center Advisory Board, and the Baker-Ripley Neighborhood Centers Advisory Committee. As an attorney, Gene serves as a Guardian Ad-Litem representing minors in court in either criminal or CPS cases. Additionally, Gene is passionate in supporting young people becoming active in civic roles, and is proud advocate for the AAPI community and solidarity work across Texas and the nation.

Grace Brooks (moderator), BRAVE Young Leader co-President, local community organizer, and reproductive justice advocate. Born and raised in Austin Texas. She earned her B.A. in political science from Prairie View A&M University and served annually as a volunteer deputy registrar. Grace is heavily involved in advocating policies and staying engaged with Black women, girls, and the LGBTQIA health events in Texas. Continuing to be inspired to become a leading force in representing her community, Grace learns from those before her and remains hopeful. In the future, Grace hopes to continue researching and representing her community on health policies.

Choreopop is a dance club dedicated to learning and showcasing K-Pop and modern dances. Through public performances, Choreopop brings clture and music to LASA High School and the Austin community. 

Founded in 2023, Evenground is a street style dance studio with a mission to bring people together through the universal language of dance. Evenground provides a welcoming and safe environment for you to train and grow within an inclusive dance community.

Light refreshments provided. Free with RSVP, invite your family, friends, and neighbors of ALL ages!

Community Marketplace
Interested in being a vendor for this event's pop-up marketplace, please fill out this interest form and a rep will follow up within 48-72 hours. Seeking local "underrepresented" entrepreneurs specializing in artisanal crafts, culinary delights, fashion, or any other innovative goods, we invite you to be part of our event. Gain exposure, connect with customers, and thrive in an engaging community-centered, BRAVE and safe space.

Consent to Use of Photographic Images
Registration and attendance at BRAVE Communities Connections constitutes an agreement by the registrant to the use and distribution of the registrant or attendees' image or voice in photographs, videotapes, electronic reproductions and audiotapes of such events and activities by BRAVE Communities. If you or anyone in your party does not consent to be in photographic images, please let a BRAVE team member know at the event upon arrival.

Accessibility
Please contact community@bravecommunities.org if you require any special services, interpreters, or have questions.

This program is supported in part by the City of Austin Economic Development Department and our recurring BRAVE members and donors. Please consider being part of the BRAVE fabric by attending and supporting our events.