On Tuesday, August 5, dozens of community groups and neighbors came together at Clover Park in Santa Monica for the Westside Night Out for Safety and Liberation to celebrate real community safety, rooted in solidarity and mutual aid. While police-led National Night Out events unfolded across the country, our gathering offered something different: music, art, food, resources, and powerful stories from the frontlines of struggle. The evening featured performances by Main St. Jam, Digital Techniques, adhDJs,  Jenna Isn’t Famous and Adam of the Smiths, as well as speeches about rapid response organizing, immigrant defense, housing justice, and mutual aid.

A friend visiting from Palestine sold handmade items to raise funds for loved ones back home, and community tables offered zines, resources, legal info, tenant support, and creative activities for kids and families. Art supplies were spread out for all ages to create together. As part of the Westside Vendor Buyout Project, we bought out three separate street vendors, who served food and treats to attendees while getting paid in full.

Throughout the park, our volunteer safety team kept a quiet watch, ensuring everyone felt secure without the presence of armed law enforcement. It was a reminder that we keep us safe, and that community defense is about care, not control. Most importantly, this event gave space for organizers and neighbors who spend most of their time supporting others to breathe, laugh, and connect. We’re grateful to everyone who made it happen and look forward to continuing the tradition of Night Out for Safety and Liberation for years to come.