For our February member gathering we welcome Marcus McDonald for a discussion of the importance of intergenerational organizing. Many of us feel frustrated by societal issues but are unsure how to contribute effectively. Marcus will share insights from his work with Charleston Black Lives Matter (CHS BLM) and arts advocacy. He will highlight a variety of tasks—ranging from the miniscule to the extraordinary—that BLM volunteers have undertaken over the years.
Attendees will leave with a clearer roadmap for how they can get involved and help drive progress toward racial equity in Charleston.
We will meet at 3 pm on Sunday, February 16 in the auditorium of the Charleston County Public Library, Main Branch downtown. Metered street parking is free on Sundays, and there is parking available in the garage under the library (garage closes at 5 pm). This event is free and open to the public.
After the meeting, those who wish will go out for food, drinks and further conversation.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, SHL has funds available to ensure everyone feels welcome and able to participate. If you would like to participate in dining with us after the event but the cost presents a challenge, please email us at [email protected], and we can discreetly arrange to cover your costs.
About Marcus McDonald
Marcus McDonald is the lead organizer of Charleston Black Lives Matter (CHS BLM). A Columbia, SC, native, Marcus grew up visiting Charleston to connect with family. He earned a B.S. in Finance from the College of Charleston in 2019 and went on to start Adesso Entertainment, a platform for managing artists and organizing events within his community.
In 2020, Marcus revived the Charleston Black Lives Matter chapter, originally founded in 2015 by Muhiyidin D’Baha and other community leaders. Alongside a small but dedicated team, Marcus spearheads initiatives focused on community education, economic empowerment, land protection, monthly grocery giveaways, and direct action. He is also actively involved in reimagining public safety in Charleston by holding local police accountable and collaborating with community-led gun violence prevention groups.
Marcus is well-known for leading protests and direct actions while playing his trombone. During a 2021 protest against the death of Jamal Sutherland in the county jail, police destroyed his trombone, which is now displayed at the International African American Museum in Charleston.
3 pm on Sunday, February 16 in the auditorium of the Charleston County Public Library, Main Branch downtown