Freedom Dreaming: Join Our Free Creative Workshop to Envision a Better World

When was the last time you allowed yourself to dream boldly? Not just small, practical goals—but expansive visions of change, liberation, and a world where justice and creativity thrive? In a society weighed down by oppressive systems, the act of imagining a brighter future is not just hopeful—it’s revolutionary.

That’s why we’re inviting artists, activists, and changemakers like you to practice radical imagination in our free creative workshop, “Practicing Radical Imagination,” inspired by the powerful freedom dreams first articulated by Black American historian Robin D.G. Kelley. This isn’t just another arts-and-crafts session; it’s about harnessing the transformative possibilities of art, connection, and community to envision the changes that you want to see in the world.

A Space for Freedom Dreaming

This workshop takes inspiration from Kelley’s concept of “freedom dreaming”: imagining futures beyond the limitations of our current reality. As he notes, “Freedom dreams are born of collective despair, but also of hope.” Together, we’ll honor this tradition, carve out time for intentional reflection, and create a tangible representation of our dreams using collage and art.

Here’s what you can expect during the workshop:

– Reading & Discussion: We’ll begin with a reflection on Tourmaline’s powerful essay, *How to Freedom Dream*, grounding ourselves in the philosophy and practice of imagining liberation.

– Art-Making & Vision Boarding: Using provided art and collage materials (and anything you’d like to bring), you’ll create a deeply personal vision board—a physical manifestation of what freedom looks, feels, and sounds like for you.

– Community Sharing: Share your vision with fellow attendees in a supportive, affirming space, and witness how collective imagination sparks connection and hope.

When you leave, you’ll carry with you more than just a vision board—you’ll carry renewed resilience, an empowered sense of self, and a community’s shared commitment to possibility.

Who Is This Workshop For?

Are you passionate about change and the powerful role creativity plays in shaping future realities? Are you an artist, activist, or young adult drawn to social justice, dreaming of solutions rooted in hope and humanity? Then this space is for you.

Whether you are a seasoned artist or someone entirely new to creative expression, this workshop invites you to explore art as both a personal practice of reflection and a tool for social transformation. No prior experience is necessary—all you need is an open mind and a willingness to dream freely.

Facilitator Spotlight

The workshop will be guided by Niko (he/they), a mixed-race Filipino-American, transmasculine, queer, neurodivergent intern therapist at Kindred Therapy. With their unique and intersectional perspective on community, healing, and creativity, Niko brings a deep understanding of how radical imagination can help us navigate the challenges of oppressive systems while nurturing hope and persistence.

Practical Details

Here’s all the info you need to join us:

📅 Date and Time
– Sunday, April 6, 2025 — 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

📍 Location:
Threshold
440 E Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125

🔖 Cost: Free! Spaces are limited, so advance registration is required to secure your spot.

🛠️ Materials: We’ve got you covered! Art-making and collage materials will be provided, though you’re welcome to bring your personal favorites if you have them.

🌀 Accessibility: To honor our community’s diverse needs, we offer transparent accessibility notes. To enter Threshold, there are four steps with a railing outside, and three steps with no railing inside. We are not a scent-free space; essential oils are sometimes diffused. White noise and sound machines are used throughout the space. We have one, all gender, single-occupancy bathroom. Please contact us with any questions or concerns. Please note: Threshold is a fully-masked workspace. Please arrive wearing a mask and wear it throughout the duration of your time in the space, unless directly instructed to remove it by your practitioner.

The exterior sign outside of Threshold, location in Fishtown Philadelphia, the sign has a black background with white hand-drawn lettering

Why You Should Join Us

The last few years have been profoundly difficult. Political and social crises loom heavily, and many of us are carrying the weight of grief, burnout, and uncertainty. Yet, despite it all, imagination remains one of our most powerful tools for resistance and resilience. By daring to dream freely, we remind ourselves that change is possible—and that we are collectively capable of ushering it in.

This workshop offers a chance to pause, connect, and create. Together, we will reignite the hope that keeps movements alive, build connections that energize us, and honor the transformative power of art as both personal and collective practice.

How to Register

Ready to claim your spot? Don’t wait—space is limited, and this Sunday, March 30 is just around the corner.

Sign up now with this form. Let’s dream big, create boldly, and build a world that reflects our shared visions of freedom.

We can’t wait to see what you imagine ✨

See You at Threshold!

This workshop is your invitation to step out of the ordinary and dream radically. Join us at Threshold this Sunday, and be a part of a community space of creativity, hope, and collective liberation. Let’s honor Robin D.G. Kelley’s tradition of freedom dreaming and begin to turn imagination into impact.