Detroit’s Social Justice & Creative Events
Discover the powerful events driving positive change in Detroit's social justice and creative communities. From art shows to community actions, LoveList brings these impactful gatherings into focus.
View the list of upcoming events below or submit your own to be featured!
Upcoming Events
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The LOVE List seeks to aggregate events connected to social justice and creative community in the Detroit. Submit your event to be featured below!
All submissions sent after the deadline will appear in the following week’s listing. *DEADLINE TO SUBMIT TO THE WEEKLY LOVE LIST IS EVERY TUESDAY AT 11:59PM*
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DJC Spring Friendraiser
Join the Detroit Justice Center on Wednesday, April 29th from 5:30-7:30pm at Alkebu-lan Village for our Spring Friendraiser! This is a time to connect with DJC staff, learn updates regarding our work, and receive invites to future engagement opportunities including our upcoming donor organizing pilot set to launch in Black August this year! Registration is on a sliding scale at $10–$30 and attendees will have a chance to win a raffle prize on behalf of both DJC and Alkebu-lan. No one will be turned away to join us.
to learn about upcoming engagement opportunities with DJC! This year, we're introducing the launch of our Donor Organizing Pilot, and how people can join our 2026 cohort set to launch during Black August
National Poetry Month Showcase and Open Mic
Join us for National Poetry Month Showcase and Open Mic on April 29, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Matrix Theatre Company, 2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216, United States. National Poetry Month Showcase and Open Mic is an evening celebrating Detroit’s spoken word scene, featuring performances by One Single Rose®, Dr. Will Langford, Azizi Jasper, and Peace, followed by an open mic inviting the community to share their voice and creativity.
Supporting Refugee Children In Our Community
Join us for Supporting Refugee Children In Our Community on April 29, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Zion Lutheran Church, 1501 W Liberty Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, United States. Supporting Refugee Children In Our Community is an informational event hosted by Samaritas where you’ll hear real-life stories from foster parents of refugee youth, learn ways to support refugee families, and engage in an open Q&A in a welcoming, no-pressure environment.
Black Writers' Salon
Join us for Black Writers' Salon on May 02, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Vesper Books & Wine, 11774 Ilene Street, Detroit, MI 48204, United States. Black Writers' Salon is a free networking and workshop event connecting Black writers across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and scriptwriting, offering space to share up to 10 pages of new work, receive feedback, and engage in creative community exchange across disciplines.
1st RunDay Sundays with Run G.R.I.T
Join us for 1st RunDay Sundays with Run G.R.I.T on May 03, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at The Love Building (parking lot), 4731 Grand River, Detroit, MI 48208, United States. 1st RunDay Sundays with Run G.R.I.T welcomes runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to come together, get motivated, and normalize movement in our neighborhoods—just show up, no sign-up required, rain or shine (weather permitting).
Le Féminine: A Celebration of Women Through Art Closing Reception
Join us for Le Féminine: A Celebration of Women Through Art Closing Reception on May 03, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Ellery East Art Center, 12941 E 7 Mile Rd, Detroit, MI 48205, United States. Le Féminine Closing Reception is the final day of the exhibition, bringing together artists and community members for an afternoon of art, reflection, and connection as the show comes to a close, celebrating the power and beauty of women through art—free and open to the public.
Temate Institute Black Dance and Culture Summer Internship Program
Tématé Institute for Black Dance and Culture is excited to invite you to apply for our Summer Youth Program.
This is a paid DANCE employment and training opportunity through Heritage Works and Grow Detroit’s
Young Talent (GDYT), for those interested in arts, culture, and creative leadership.
Mosaic Memory Cafe
Join us for Mosaic Memory Café on May 06, 2026, May 13, 2026, and May 20, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at Robert C. Valade Park (Detroit Riverfront Conservancy), 2670 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207, United States. Mosaic Memory Café is a welcoming, riverfront gathering for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and dementia along with their caregivers and loved ones, offering supportive community connection, engaging activities, and space for conversation, creativity, and care—free to attend as part of Alzheimer’s and dementia awareness programming.
2026 YDRC Summit
Join us for 2026 YDRC Summit on May 07, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Marygrove, 8425 McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48212, United States. 2026 YDRC Summit brings together youth development leaders and practitioners for a day of learning, connection, and strategy-building, featuring interactive sessions, partner spotlights, and opportunities to strengthen systems that support young people across Detroit.
Emo Night Brooklyn
Join us for Emo Night Brooklyn on May 8, 2026, from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Saint Andrew’s Hall, 431 E Congress St, Detroit, MI 48226, United States. Emo Night Brooklyn is a high-energy, DJ-driven dance party spinning emo and pop punk anthems, inviting fans to scream, mosh, and relive the songs that defined a generation.
Bicycle Safety Class
Join us for Bicycle Safety Class on May 09, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Grosse Ile Elementary School (Parke Lane Elementary), 21610 Parke Lane, Grosse Ile, MI 48138, United States. Bicycle Safety Class is an educational session focused on bicycle safety and etiquette participants are encouraged to bring their own bicycle and helmet for a hands-on learning experience.
Monthly D6 Meeting: Master Plan + SummerYouth Programming in D6
Join us for Monthly D6 Meeting: Master Plan + Summer Youth Programming in D6 on May 09, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Goodwill of Greater Detroit, 3111 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48208, United States. Monthly D6 Meeting will feature Council Member Gabriela Santiago-Romero leading a discussion on the City’s Master Plan alongside local nonprofits sharing upcoming summer youth programming opportunities—free lunch will be provided.
Extra Everything! A Pizza Toppings Themed Art Show at The Rectory
Join us for Extra Everything! A Pizza Toppings Themed Art Show at The Rectory starting May 11, 2026, from 5:00–8:00 PM at The Rectory, 9321 Rosa Parks, Detroit, MI 48206, United States, continuing through June 28, 2026.
This group exhibition features 10 Detroit artists exploring pizza toppings as inspiration across painting, illustration, mixed media, and collage. Enjoy a casual, welcoming evening of art, food, and community — meet the artists, view the works in person, and support local creative spaces.
Featured Artists: Arisha DesHarnais, Charissa Vanderbilt, Detroit Papercraft, Jasmine Graham, Kailee Morrill, Melissa Valenti, Noah Chapp, Sarah Stanley, Stef Barahona, Tabitha Stephens
Curator: Dr. Chanel Beebe
Reception: May 21, 2026, 5:00–8:00 PM
Gallery Hours: Tues–Thurs 11:00 AM–9:00 PM | Fri–Sat 11:00 AM–10:00 PM | Sun 11:00 AM–8:00 PM | Mon Closed
Admission: Free and open to all (RSVP encouraged)
Artwork Available for Purchase: Originals will be available throughout the exhibition.
Pull up, bring a friend, grab a slice, and enjoy an evening celebrating Detroit’s creativity!
Packard Farmers Market
Join us for Packard Farmers Market beginning May 16, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, held Saturdays through October 10, 2026 (closed July 4) at Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, 49965 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township, MI 48317, United States. Packard Farmers Market brings together local farmers, artisans, bakers, makers, and small businesses in a unique historic setting, offering a relaxed, walkable outdoor market experience that supports community connection and the preservation of the Packard Proving Grounds.
Musician Tia Imani Hanna with Detroit Disability Power
Live strings musician Tia will be playing for all ages, all bodies, all minds!
Five Years of Impact: Fundraiser & Celebration
Join us for Five Years of Impact: Fundraiser & Celebration on May 20, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The LOVE Building, 4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48208, United States. Five Years of Impact: Fundraiser & Celebration is a special Detroit CHEMpreneurIST fundraiser marking five years of impact, featuring a silent auction, hands-on demo activities, light food and refreshments, entertainment, and more—all in support of STEEAM education and youth entrepreneurship for Detroit youth.
Return of Idlewild 2026
Join us for Return of Idlewild 2026 starting July 23, 2026, from 12:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Idlewild, MI, Williams Island, Idlewild, MI 49642, United States, continuing through July 26, 2026. Return of Idlewild 2026 is an intimate, community-centered cultural retreat in Black Eden, bringing together music, food, wellness, and creative exchange in a space intentionally designed for rest, connection, and meaningful engagement.
2026 Family “Fun Run” – Stomp Out Childhood Obesity!
Join us for the 2026 Family “Fun Run” – Stomp Out Childhood Obesity! on August 12, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor, 1900 Atwater Street, Detroit, MI 48207, United States. 2026 Family “Fun Run” is a fun, environmentally immersive 1-mile adventure hike for youth and families, combining physical activity, environmental stewardship, and engagement. Registration includes a T-shirt ($25 youth, $30 adults) and free entry to the Outdoor Adventure Center—kick off the 16th Annual Expo with movement, learning, and fun!
16th Annual “Celebrating a Healthier Detroit” Expo
Join us for the 16th Annual “Celebrating a Healthier Detroit” Expo on August 12, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM at William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor, 1900 Atwater Street, Detroit, MI 48207, United States. 16th Annual “Celebrating a Healthier Detroit” Expo is a free, family-focused event featuring health screenings, cooking demos, group fitness sessions, live music, giveaways, and expert advice from top doctors—all designed to help your family move, eat better, and thrive under the 2026 theme: Equipping Families to Thrive.
Sacred Space Community Social
Join us for Sacred Space Community Social on April 25, 2026, from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Irwin House Detroit, 2351 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208, United States. Sacred Space Community Social is a community gathering curated and led by movement and sound practitioners, offering programming and conversation centered on sacredness, connection, and collective care.
Inner Kid Expressions (Free your Inner Kid through Art!)
Join us for Inner Kid Expressions (Free your Inner Kid through Art!) on April 25, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at The Congregation, 9321 Rosa Parks Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48206, United States. Inner Kid Expressions (Free your Inner Kid through Art!) is a joyful, free-form creative session exploring collage, coloring, and spontaneous mark-making, offering a relaxed space to create, play, and reconnect with your inner self—free to attend with a suggested $10 donation.
The Perils of Mr. Punch! Modern Times Theater
Join us for The Perils of Mr. Punch! Modern Times Theater on April 25, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Matrix Theatre Company, 2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216, United States. The Perils of Mr. Punch! Modern Times Theater is a lively, low-tech puppetry performance presented by Flying Cardboard Theater, featuring hand-crafted puppets made from upcycled materials and a comedic, old-time spectacle brought to life by Justin Lander and Rose Friedman.
Art in the Trees
Join us for Art in the Trees on April 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Palmer Park, 1121 Merrill Plaisance, Detroit, MI 48203, United States. Art in the Trees brings together artists and musicians for a creative outdoor experience featuring Mint Artists Guild crafts, a cookie sale, and an Earth Day cleanup in partnership with Integrity Shows and People for Palmer Park.
House of Heavy
Join us for House of Heavy on April 24, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The Loving Touch, 22634 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220, United States. House of Heavy is a high-energy, DJ-driven heavy music night delivering a cathartic mix of nu-metal, alt-metal, and metalcore favorites for fans ready to mosh, rage, and relive the sounds that shaped them.
The Perils of Mr. Punch! Modern Times Theater
Join us for The Perils of Mr. Punch! Modern Times Theater on April 23, 2026, from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM at Matrix Theatre Company, 2730 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216, United States, continuing through April 24, 2026. The Perils of Mr. Punch! Modern Times Theater is a lively, low-tech puppetry performance presented by Flying Cardboard Theater, featuring hand-crafted puppets made from upcycled materials and a comedic, old-time spectacle brought to life by Justin Lander and Rose Friedman.
Michigan Jazz & Gender Justice presents: Pamela Wise Trio + No Man's Land
Join us for Michigan Jazz & Gender Justice presents: Pamela Wise Trio + No Man's Land on April 23, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM at Ginkgo Records, 3546 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI 48216, United States. Michigan Jazz & Gender Justice presents: Pamela Wise Trio + No Man's Land is a double bill of jazz and improvised music featuring Pamela Wise Trio with Jaribu Shahid and Gayelynn McKinney alongside No Man’s Land—an all-ages, no-cover evening celebrating live performance and collective expression.
Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses Lunch & Learn Info Session
Join us for Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses Lunch & Learn Info Session on April 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Grand River WorkPlace, 19120 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48223, United States. Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses Lunch & Learn Info Session offers a free lunch and an opportunity to learn about this fully funded, accelerated business education program designed to help established small business owners scale strategically through an MBA-style curriculum, hands-on training, and a strong network of advisors and peers.
Back Alley Bikes Garage Sale - Bike Sale
Join us for Back Alley Bikes Garage Sale - Bike Sale on April 20, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Back Alley Bikes, 3611 Cass Ave (Alley/Rear Entrance), Detroit, MI 48201, United States. Back Alley Bikes Garage Sale - Bike Sale offers a wide selection of used bikes priced from $25–$175, sold as-is, along with accessories like lights and locks—perfect for anyone looking to gear up affordably while supporting a local community bike shop.
Spring Fling Handmade Market
Join us for Spring Fling Handmade Market on April 19, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, 49965 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township, MI 48317, United States. Spring Fling Handmade Market is a first-time indoor market celebrating spring with more than 50 local farmers and artisans offering handmade goods, fresh baked items, and locally made products. Admission is a $5 donation, with proceeds supporting the preservation and restoration of the Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Join us for The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Troy, MI on April 18, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM at Embassy Suites Troy, 850 Tower Drive, Troy, MI 48098, United States, with an additional performance on April 25, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Troy, MI is North America’s largest award-winning interactive true crime dinner show, delivering a high-energy evening of comedy, suspense, and audience-driven intrigue. Enjoy a full dinner as professional actors hidden among the guests guide you through unexpected twists—stay alert, because the culprit is in the room, and you could be named a Prime Suspect before the night ends.
April Felting Workshop by Jolisha.Jolene
Join us for April Felting Workshop by Jolisha.Jolene on April 18, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at The Congregation, 9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206, United States. April Felting Workshop by Jolisha.Jolene is a beginner-friendly, hands-on fiber art experience where you’ll explore color and texture through guided felting—no tools or prior experience required. With a suggested $15 donation, this creative session invites you to drop in, create, and leave with something beautiful made by hand.
The People's Potluck
Join us for The People’s Potluck on April 18, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Central United Methodist Church, 2026 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, United States. The People’s Potluck is a community-centered gathering featuring a free hot meal, free store, art, yoga, open mic performances, and a community safety panel, all focused on mutual aid, connection, and collective care.
DJ D-Love Muzic with Detroit Disability Power
Join us for DJ D-Love Muzic with Detroit Disability Power on April 18, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at The LOVE Building, 4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48209, United States. DJ D-Love Muzic with Detroit Disability Power is an inclusive, all-ages dance event featuring great music and a welcoming, accessible space for all bodies to come together and celebrate.
Cinderellas on the Dance Floor
Join us for Cinderellas on the Dance Floor on April 17, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM at 215 West Ferndale, 215 W Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220, United States. Cinderellas on the Dance Floor is an early evening ladies-only dance event featuring world-renowned DJs Stacey “Hotwaxx” Hale and Rimarkable, delivering a high-energy night of music, movement, and celebration.
Fined Out Screenings at Birwood House
Join us for Fined Out Screenings at Birwood House on April 17, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Birwood House, 12602 Birwood St, Detroit, MI 48238, United States. Fined Out Screenings at Birwood House is a free community event featuring a two-part documentary series exploring the impact of unjust fines and fees and the movements working to challenge these systems.
Breathe Into Balance
Join us for Breathe Into Balance on April 17, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at The Congregation, 9321 Rosa Parks Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48206, United States. Breathe Into Balance is a calming evening of gentle breathwork, grounding, and herbal wisdom designed to help you reset your nervous system, reconnect with your body, and experience community care in a relaxed, supportive space—free to attend with a suggested $10 donation.
Supper & Cinema
Join us for Supper & Cinema on April 15, 2026, from 6:00–8:30 PM at The Love Building, 4731 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48208, United States.
Celebrate Black Maternal Health Week with Birth Detroit as they present the screening of "Listen to Me", followed by a moderated discussion with director Kanika Harris. The film follows three Black women navigating motherhood in a system not built to protect them, offering a powerful archive of grief, resilience, and healing.
Suggested Donation: $15 (all proceeds support Birth Detroit families — any donation is welcome)
Come for the food, stay for the film, and engage in conversation about Black maternal health and advocacy.
Mint Open Interviews
Join us for Mint Open Interviews on April 15, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Michigan State University Detroit Center, 3408 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, United States. Mint Open Interviews invites emerging artists ages 14 to 23 to interview for a creative summer job opportunity in partnership with GDYT—come prepared to share your interests, experience, and creative energy.
Germane Barnes Lecture at Cranbrook
Join us for Germane Barnes Lecture at Cranbrook on April 14, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at deSalle Auditorium at Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304, United States. Germane Barnes Lecture at Cranbrook is a free public lecture exploring the intersections of architecture, identity, and social impact, highlighting Barnes’ work as an educator and practitioner advancing inclusive design and cultural critique.
From Idea to Action: Conversations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs- Salon and Shop Talk
Join us for From Idea to Action: Conversations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs – Salon and Shop Talk on April 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Classics Barbershop, 12006 Morang, Detroit, MI 48224, United States. From Idea to Action: Conversations for Aspiring Entrepreneurs – Salon and Shop Talk is a roundtable conversation for barbers, cosmetologists, and personal care professionals to explore business ownership, share ideas, and learn practical steps for building and growing a strong client base.
Visionaries of Beauty: Financial Matters
Join us for Visionaries of Beauty: Financial Matters on April 13, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at The Jefferson Hub, 950 Selden Street, Detroit, MI 48201, United States. Visionaries of Beauty: Financial Matters is a free workshop designed to equip beauty students and professionals with practical tools, knowledge, and strategies to manage finances, build stability, and grow their business with intention.
Wedding Garage Sale
Join us for Wedding Garage Sale on April 12, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site, 49965 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township, MI 48317, United States. Wedding Garage Sale invites couples and community members to shop or sell pre-loved wedding decorations and attire as part of the “Love it Once. Pass it On.” movement. Open to the public with $5 entry per shopper, this resale event offers a chance to give wedding items a second life while connecting with others planning their special day.
✨ April Exhibition at The Congregation: Soul Preserve by Jen Kafoury
Join us for April Exhibition at The Congregation: Soul Preserve by Jen Kafoury on April 11, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at The Congregation, 9321 Rosa Parks Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48212, United States, on view through April 26, 2026. April Exhibition at The Congregation: Soul Preserve by Jen Kafoury is a vibrant solo exhibition exploring color, texture, and seasonal renewal, with an opening reception to meet the artist and experience the work in community.
Connecting Chapters through Written Thoughts and Voices
Join us for Connecting Chapters through Written Thoughts and Voices on April 11, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (VIP entry at 1:45 PM) at THE MEETING PLACE ART & CULTURAL CENTER, 11036 WHITTIER, DETROIT, MI 48224, United States. Connecting Chapters through Written Thoughts and Voices is an empowering experience designed to help you write with confidence while expanding your knowledge of publishing, marketing, promotion, and book distribution, all while connecting and networking within the author community.
Grand Volunteer Day For The Story Community Garden
Join us for Grand Volunteer Day For The Story Community Garden on April 11, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at StoryCommunityGarden, 8305 Badger, Detroit, MI 48213, United States. Grand Volunteer Day For The Story Community Garden invites neighbors, friends, and families to come together for an afternoon of planting, building, and community care—helping grow fresh produce, flowers, and shared green spaces for the neighborhood.
D6 Dance Day with Team GSR
Join us for D6 Dance Day with Team GSR on April 11, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Patton Rec Center, 2301 Woodmere St., Detroit, MI 48209, United States. D6 Dance Day with Team GSR is a fun, high-energy afternoon featuring dance lessons from Team GSR, Jit Masters, and Vamanos, with free lunch provided for attendees.
DNEP CFO Boot Camp -Lender Meetup
Join us for DNEP CFO Boot Camp - Lender Meetup on April 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at University of Michigan Detroit Center, 3663 Woodward Ave. Suite #150, Detroit, MI 48201, United States. DNEP CFO Boot Camp - Lender Meetup is the final session of the series, offering entrepreneurs a chance to connect with small business and mission-based lenders, ask questions, explore funding options, and build relationships to support business growth—open to all, even if you did not attend previous workshops.
CARAVAN: Mobolaji Ayeni Solo Exhibition Opening Reception
Join us for CARAVAN: Mobolaji Ayeni Solo Exhibition Opening Reception on April 04, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at PLAYGROUND DETROIT, 2845 Gratiot Avenue, Detroit, MI 48207, United States, on view through May 2, 2026. CARAVAN: Mobolaji Ayeni Solo Exhibition is the artist’s debut solo show, exploring the migration of people, ideas, and cultures from pre-colonial West Africa to modern North America through a powerful body of work.
Love Will Liberate Reading and Book Signing
Join us for Love Will Liberate Reading and Book Signing on April 04, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at Pages Bookshop, 19560 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48223, United States. Love Will Liberate Reading and Book Signing features author Demarra West sharing a reading from her newly released book Love Will Liberate, followed by a book signing hosted by Pages Bookshop—an intimate afternoon of literature, reflection, and community connection.
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