Circles & Sessions

Chicago is home to thousands of multi-talented youth who have ambitious dreams of transforming the future into a positive world shaped by outstanding art. Due to the unjust distribution of resources, many of these bright minds will unfortunately never get the chance to live out their dreams. The scarcity of quality extra curricular activities and opportunities in America’s Black and brown communities has left many youth to turn to the streets and become a product of their environment. Since 2011, Circles & Ciphers has created space for young people impacted by the criminal justice system and community violence to gather in hip-hop centric peace circles, build community, and heal.


Circles & Ciphers will build a professional recording studio dubbed "Kaba Studios" to honor our co-founder Mariame Kaba's contribution to the organization. The word "kaaba" has islamic origin, pinpointing the holy structure in Mecca. We plan to implement more programming in order to provide more opportunities for our young people. This studio will be built inside the United Church of Rogers Park and will be a safe space where youth will be able to create art while growing as leaders, cultivating their skills as practitioners of restorative justice, and developing new avenues for healing. Additionally, the recording studio will provide job opportunities for formerly incarcerated youth and upcoming artists with the vision and creativity to build a more just world. 

We have already have a starting donation through a grant from Illinois Humanities and would love to expand on the support that we have already gotten in building the studio.

Join forces with Circles & Ciphers by donating to our “Circles & Sessions” fundraiser campaign. With your help we can form the next generation of impactful artists and community leaders. Donate Today!


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