I had the honor to be in conversation with Rana Abdelhamid to celebrate the launch of her new book GET HOME SAFE. Rana is a powerful testament to community strength and holds a deep love and respect for Astoria and the many communities that call this city home. Rana reminds us that self-defense is more than physical protection, it includes emotional, psychological, and overall wellbeing, something that communities of color are too often denied. Our conversation touched on the impacts of patriarchy and capitalism, how dominant systems have failed many communities, and how real safety grows from communities caring for and protecting one another. Thank you to Astoria Bookstore and Thespis Theater for hosting such a thoughtful conversation. All my respect to Rana for the daily reminder and inspiration about the work and commitment to serve New York with love, safety and respect.
