justice + healing + culture
What is the True Cost of a Life Taken by Racial Violence?
Immeasurable. It’s a lifetime of echoes in the heart. The hollow space at dinner tables. The missing laughter in living rooms. The dreams that will never be realized.
The loss ripples across families and communities with a profound, enduring impact. In a nation where such tragedies are a harsh and persistent reality, the need for change is immediate.
As a light on the legacy of Ajike “AJ” Owens and countless others whose lives were prematurely stolen, the Standing in the Gap Fund was founded. With a mission to transform grief into action and loss into legacy. Here, we channel collective anguish into powerful advocacy for justice, healing, and cultural resilience. Join us in this vital journey—as we heal, advocate, and inspire through the enduring strength of Black cultural arts.
About Us
Our Mission
As an intentional response to the profound and pervasive trauma of race-based violence, our mission is to ease the financial burden and support the healing journey. Standing in the Gap exists because, in America, racial terror has far-reaching consequences that require holistic responses rooted in justice, healing, and culture. Through partnerships with artists, Standing in the Gap Fund, harnesses the power of Black cultural arts traditions to heal and inspire change.
how we move
What We Do
Justice
The fight for #Justice4AJ actively confronts systemic injustices by advocating for policy changes and providing resources for legal empowerment. Through our upcoming Toolkit, we aim to equip communities with the knowledge and tools to fight racial injustice, ensuring a proactive stance against inequality.
Healing
Recognizing the deep scars left by racial violence, we extend financial support and resources to those directly affected:
- Families: We provide grants to families grappling with the aftermath of racial violence, aiding their journey toward healing and stability.
- Organizers: We support the vital work of organizers who stand on the frontlines of change, ensuring they have the resources to sustain their healing missions.
Culture
Culture sits comfortably at the cross-section of everything we do. We partner with artists and cultural practitioners to weave healing through the powerful expressions of Black arts. These partnerships not only celebrate the rich traditions of Black culture but also promote a shared healing process through artistic expression.
Support Us
Our Goals
Over the next year, we are committed to raising $2 million to advance our mission of supporting those impacted by racial violence. These funds will directly benefit our community. By 2026, we aim to begin distributing to individuals and families affected by racial violence, with a goal of exceeding $3.5 million in support by 2030. There are countless ways to join us in this important work.
make a one time donation
Your one time donation makes a big impact on the future of our goals.
become a sustaining donor
Your regular contributions help us respond swiftly and effectively to crises.
more ways to give
Looking for additional ways to give? We’ve got your covered. Click the ‘DONATE TODAY’ button for more information on how to give.
Give
Support Us
The Standing in the Gap Fund was created in memory of Ajike “AJ” Owens, with her family being the first recipient of its support. By donating to this fund today, you are providing resources to other families directly impacted by racial violence and supporting those organizing against racial terror and race-based violence. You can set up a one-time or recurring donations through our website, by mail, or by wire transfer and become a crucial part of our mission.
The Standing in the Gap Fund is a donor advised fund established through the Greater Washington Area Community Foundation. All donations are tax-deductible.
standing in the gap fund launch
Miami Art Basel
In collaboration with High Cotton Production, The Givers Revival, and Loni Johnson, we present ‘Calling All Our Power Back to Us”, an immersive arts exhibition and fundraiser to officially launch the Standing in the Gap Fund. The exhibition, curated by Marie Vickels features work by artists Loni Jonhson, Vanta Black, and Faren Humes who pay homage to Black women and families impacted by racial violence. Join us in Miami during Art Basel for art, conversations with community leaders and artists, artful play for all ages, music, food, and more.
Date: Sunday, Dec. 2- 8, 2024 from 12pm – 8pm
Location: Choublack, Little Haiti Visitor Center & Garden. 5556 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137
Leave a Message After the Beep
Hey fam, welcome to the space. This isn’t just an exhibit—it’s a moment, a movement, and you’re a part of it.
We want your voice in this conversation. Whether it’s a memory, a prayer, words of encouragement, or your thoughts on justice and healing—whatever’s on your heart, let it out.
Here’s how you can share your message:
1. In the Living Room, Right Here in Miami
- Step inside, take a breath, and let your voice flow. When you hear the beep, just speak.
2. From Wherever You Are
- Call 1-800-437-3009 to leave your message.
- When prompted, enter 93496 as your invitation number.
Your words have power. Your voice can shift narratives. Together, let’s leave a legacy of truth, love, and action.
Because this is bigger than us—it’s about the world we’re creating.
