Dear Friends and Advocates of Black Scranton,

On December 9, at around 1 PM, the Black Scranton Project Center for Arts & Culture (BSPCAC) experienced a serious security breach when an unknown individual used a weapon to gain unauthorized entry. While no one was harmed and no property was damaged, the incident revealed critical vulnerabilities in our building’s security.

Our founder and CEO, Glynis Johns, was present during the break-in and acted courageously, ensuring the situation did not escalate further. This experience has been deeply impactful and personal for our team, and it underscores the urgent need to prioritize safety for everyone who enters our space.

Over the past two weeks, the outpouring of support has been overwhelming. From heartfelt messages to generous donations, your compassion has been a source of strength for us. To those who have reached out, contributed, or simply kept us in your thoughts, we extend our deepest gratitude.

We want to assure you that we are actively working to improve our security systems. This includes making necessary upgrades to the BSPCAC’s infrastructure, though these changes take time, especially with equipment delays during the holiday season. While we’ve received attention from law enforcement, this incident has also illuminated gaps in community engagement with local authorities—an area we recognize as critical to address moving forward.

The end of the year often brings celebration and reflection, but for us, it has also brought a shift in priorities. As we focus on these administrative and safety needs, our commitment to serving the Black Scranton community remains steadfast.

To sustain and enhance this mission, we’ve launched a dedicated fund, Locks & Legacy: BSPCAC Security Fund, to make necessary improvements. It’s important to note that for over a year, we’ve worked diligently to strengthen our security through grants and small upgrades when possible.

Here’s how you can help:

• Make a Donation: Every contribution helps us enhance security and keep BSPCAC a safe space.

• Offer Expertise: If you have experience with security systems or building infrastructure, we welcome your input.

• Spread the Word: Share this update with others who care about our mission.

• Follow/Subscribe: Stay connected and up-to-date on all things BSP by following us on social media and subscribing to our newsletter.

Thank you for your continued trust and support. BSPCAC remains committed to being a safe and welcoming space for all. Together, we can ensure the center stays a beacon of hope and resilience for our community.

Sincerely,

Black Scranton Project Board of Directors