In 1979 a group of incarcerated people in California came together to remember George and Jonathan Jackson and other freedom fighters for a commemoration known as #BlackAugust. People in prison who observed Black August would fast from TV, radio, and food and engage in a period of reflection to embrace the principles of communion, unity, self-sacrifice, political education, physical training, and determined resistance. Over time, Black August expanded beyond prisons. Organizations like @mxgmnational joined in the call to honor Black political prisoners and activists killed by the state, bring awareness to harsh prison conditions, and highlight the radical tradition of Black resistance against anti-Black state violence and systemic oppression. This year, we will highlight some current Black political prisoners as the month progresses to raise awareness and support for these warriors. We ask that you sign petitions, write letters, donate, and spread the word as we advocate for the release of all prisoners and the abolition of the prison industrial complex. In the meantime, we invite you to honor Black revolutionaries, such as Queen Mother Moore, Lucy Parsons, Mutulu Shakur, Assata Shakur, Marcus Garvey, and The Move 9. We encourage you to reflect on the sacrifices and progress made during events like the Attica uprising, Watts Uprising, the Haitian Revolution, and the March on Washington. Lastly, we challenge you to practice collective action within your community through mutual aid, political education, and engaging with local organizations to build a future without policing and prisons. Text DEFEND to 90975 to stay up-to-date this Black August.