Black Surf Celebrates Juneteenth with Joy and Waves

Dozens gathered at Cowell Beach for the sixth annual Liberation Paddle Out, a Juneteenth celebration hosted by Black Surf Santa Cruz that blends joy, history, and ocean empowerment. Founded in 2020 after racial justice protests, the nonprofit offers free surf lessons and access to BIPOC communities, rooted in reclaiming Black connections to the sea. Founder Esabella Bonner highlights Indigenous and African surf heritage, turning the beach into a space for healing, ancestral honor, and radical joy. This year, free gear and lessons ensured everyone could join — even crafting flower crowns and forming surfboard circles to honor ancestors. Since its start, Black Surf Santa Cruz has transformed over a thousand lives, helping them conquer fear and find belonging in the water. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f76283444a63e9c5