Going to Ground: Community Picnic & Opening Celebration

Join us for a communal meal and party produced by SIDE Presents honoring the life of Zipporah Potter Atkins, the research of Dr. Vivian Johnson, and a new installation by artist LaRissa Rogers.

Going to Ground – Rogers’ site specific sculpture on The Rose Kennedy Greenway – explores the life of Zipporah Potter Atkins, the first-known Black woman to own a home in Boston in 1670. Potter Atkins’ home rested on land now cared for by The Greenway in the North End, which was brought to light by Dr. Vivian Johnson, Professor Emerita of Boston University, after 6 years of archival research.

The picnic will take place at the site of the sculpture on the corner of Hanover Street and Surface Road (across from the Boston Public Market), and will include remarks by the artist LaRissa Rogers, and performances by Dzidzor, ToriTori, and a dance performance choreographed by Nailah Randall-Bellinger and performed by Jenny Oliver of RootsUprising. Refreshments will be provided by Chef Noire and Dray Drinks. A floral and sound bath experience will be provided by The People’s Living Room.

RSVP at this link for a free meal ticket. We hope to see you there!

RAIN DATE: Sunday, August 25, 2024 from 4pm-7pm