Conversations with Revolutionaries: Billy "Che" Brooks

Mixed Roots Collective and Urban Core Collective are honored to host Billy “Che” Brooks Sr., a lifelong educator, organizer, and the former Minister of Education of the Illinois Chapter of the Black Panther Party for a community conversation curated by Dr. Veneese Chandler, Executive Director/CEO of the Family Outreach Center.

Mr. Brooks' work is deeply rooted in communal sustainability, intergenerational learning, and the ongoing fight for justice. From securing landmark status for historical Black Panther Party sites to piloting The Living History Project, an intergenerational learning initiative, his work serves as a blueprint for grassroots transformation.

As we continue to build power in Grand Rapids, this event will center:
Community-Led Organizing – What does real, effective organizing look like?
Sustaining Our Movements – How do we ensure our work and impact last beyond a moment?
Legacy & Education – How do we pass down radical knowledge and reimagine learning and practice community solidarity?

Come ready to listen, learn, and connect as we explore how we sustain our movements for generations to come.

Host or Publisher Urban Core Collective