2,000+ Enjoy Free Summer of Nonviolence Drive-In Movie at Balloon Fiesta Park
ALBUQUERQUE – Over 2,000 movie goers helped turn the clock back Wednesday night at Balloon Fiesta Park gathering for a special screening of Grease.
The Summer of Nonviolence event was sponsored by Bernalillo County, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, City of Albuquerque Parks & Recreation, and Albuquerque Community Safety Department. The summer-long initiative encourages youth to take a pledge of nonviolence and offers a series of events throughout the season for young people to have fun and stay safe.
Attendees who took the pledge of nonviolence received a commemorative “I Pledge” Summer of Nonviolence t-shirt. The pledge is a commitment to engaging in positive actions and promoting peace throughout the summer. Those who filled out a short survey were given vouchers to use at any of the onsite food trucks which included Zia Strong, XO Fast Foods, Ordinarily Beautiful Cotton Candy and Umami Moto Food Truck.
Fans of the movie Grease were treated to vintage cars on display and some even dressed as characters from the film.
The Summer of Nonviolence youth ambassadors known as “Gen P” (or Generation Peace) were also on hand to kick-off the event greeting guests and answering questions around the pledge and the campaign.
“When we invest in our youth, we invest in a safer, stronger city,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “With the Summer of Nonviolence, we’re building a culture of peace and connection—one event at a time.”
Participants were also provided access and information to helpful support services including: behavioral health, shelter, food assistance programs, and educational programs. Part of the Summer of Nonviolence’s campaign aims to connect local families with the resources needed to foster a stronger, more resilient community.
“What better way to bring people together than with a timeless classic like Grease,” said Bernalillo County Commission Vice-Chair Adriann Barboa (D3). “It’s a fun, throwback evening that brings the community together and reminds us all what peace and positivity are all about.”
“These gatherings have offered a safe, inclusive space for young people and families to connect,” said ACS Public Outreach Coordinator Ismael Vallejos. “It’s clear how much the community appreciates them, and we’re excited to continue creating positive experiences throughout the summer.”
The campaign offers a series of events throughout the season for young people to have fun and stay safe. For more information about this event and future happenings, please visit the Summer of Nonviolence website.