Come for the history—stay for the Joy. Let’s honor Mama Joy the way she lived—boldly, joyfully, and in community.
Join us for “Sounds of Resistance and Joy,” the annual celebration honoring the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Mama Joy Chatel—beloved community activist, preservationist, and the late owner of 227 Abolitionist Place. Mama Joy was a powerful voice for justice who fought tirelessly to protect and elevate the legacy of the Underground Railroad and Brooklyn’s 19th-century Black community. Her courageous battle to save her historic home unearthed a vital chapter of American history—one of resistance, resilience, and Black excellence.
Mama Joy founded Friends of Abolitionist Place in 2008 to ensure this legacy would never be forgotten. Shortly after her passing in 2014, the organization has carried her torch, continuing to celebrate the contributions of those who came before us—and those still fighting for justice today.
The gathering is FREE but we strongly encourage you to donate what you can at abolitionistplace.org/donate.
This year, alongside our co-hosts Downtown Brooklyn Partnership we’re honoring Mama Joy’s birthday with two days of music, dance, community, and celebration.
Bring your friends and family for a weekend full of good vibes, performances, historical reflection, and plenty of dancing with music provided by the fire-hot DJ Bentrock of WBLS on Saturday, July 26th, and world-renowned DJ/ producer, DJ Spinna on Sunday, July 27th at Lefferts Historic House.
