As we rise together for freedom in 2025, the challenges we face in the U.S. are immense. We are witnessing a rise in fascism and attacks on our rights and safety, with a new influx of known perpetrators of sexual harassment and violence at the helm. From attacks on trans rights, increasing threats to migrant communities, and ongoing assaults on our right to organize and protest, to the dismantling of critical environmental regulations and the continued funding of genocide and apartheid in Palestine, we are living in a time that demands bold and creative resistance.
As V said during her talk at our One Billion Rising: Art, Activism, and Creative Resistance Zoom meeting in November, we have the power to be the swarm—a unified and coordinated force—moving in solidarity to protect each threatened community. This powerful imagery reminds us that when we work together, we become an unstoppable force for justice.
One Billion Rising’s campaign, Rise for Freedom, Rise Against Fascism, is a powerful response to these crises, offering a platform for collective action through art, solidarity, and hope. Here’s how we are organizing across the U.S. and the resources available to support you in making an impact.
New Toolkits and Resources for Organizing
- Updated Rising Toolkits (English and Spanish): Our updated toolkits are your go-to guides for organizing impactful Risings in your community. Available in both English and Spanish, these resources provide creative ideas, promo tips, and strategies to mobilize your community through dance, music, theater, and visual art. We’re excited to expand accessibility and reach with this dual-language offering.
- Campus Guide: Designed for students and educators, the Campus Guide equips you to organize Risings on college campuses. It includes strategies for outreach, event planning, and resources to address issues such as campus sexual violence, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights. Inspire your campus to rise!
- Disability Justice Guide: We are proud to announce the release of our Disability Justice Guide. This resource offers practical steps to ensure your Rising is welcoming to all participants and addresses systemic ableism.
Join Us for the February Monthly Zoom Meeting
Our next Monthly Organizers Zoom Meeting is coming up on February 20th. This is a chance to connect with fellow organizers, share ideas, and receive support for your Rising. Whether you’re a seasoned activist or just starting out, this meeting is a space to grow and collaborate.
Date: February 20, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Register here: onebillionrising.org/usa-zoom
Risings Spotlights!
Here are some of the incredible Risings and events happening across the U.S. so far this year (click here for more information on each event):
- V-Day Abilene 2025
Date: February 13, 2025
Location: Abilene Community Theatre, 809 Barrow St, Abilene, TX
About: Organized by activist Gavyn Hardegree, this event focuses on anti-human trafficking and LGBTQIA+ advocacy, featuring powerful performances to inspire change.
- Gal-entine’s Day
Date: February 14, 2025
Location: The Blue Tavern, 1206 N Monroe, Tallahassee, FL
About: On February 14, we rise and rage against the atrocities committed by federal and state governments against women in the U.S. and beyond. This event is a reclaiming of agency and body autonomy.
- One Billion Rising: Rise for Freedom 2025
Date: February 14, 2025
Location: Binghamton University Union, Binghamton, NY
About: This interactive event will celebrate solidarity among women and their allies, educate participants on violence against women, and share actionable steps to end it.
- One Billion Rising
Date: February 14, 2025
Location: 207 S Main St, Las Cruces, NM
About: A family-friendly event demanding an end to violence against women and all forms of violence. Join us for music, community, and a collective stand for freedom.
- One Billion Rising Truckee Tahoe
Date: February 14, 2025
Location: Truckee, CA Train Station
About: A flash mob Rising in downtown Truckee to unite the community and celebrate resilience through dance.
- One Billion Rising
Date: February 14, 2025
Location: College of Saint Mary, Omaha, NE
About: Hosted by Project SPEAK, this event includes speakers, activities, and a flash mob to educate and mobilize the community around gender-based violence.
- Get Tough! Get BAAD! 2025
Date: February 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM
Location: BAAD! brings back its Bronx queer flavor to One Billion Rising’s global mass action in this vibrant event. Show Me Love kicks off with the unveiling of Where Are Our Bronx Transgender People of Color Who Are Artists and Out – a stunning portrait exhibit honoring the BAAD! Community.
- Esperanza Dance Project’s One Billion Rising Flashmob
Date: February 14, 2025, at 4:30 PM
Location: Esperanza Dance Project will host Tucson’s One Billion Rising event at the University of Arizona, using dance to break the silence around childhood sexual violence. Participants will perform the flash mob “Break the Chain” in solidarity to end gender-based violence and rise against oppression.
- The Vagina Monologues
Date: February 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM & March 1, 2025, at 5:00 PM
Location: Edwards Hall, 64 Upper College Road, Kingston, RI
About: This special performance, hosted by the URI Women’s Center and Gender and Sexuality Center, uses V’s groundbreaking play to raise awareness and funds for gender justice. Proceeds benefit local centers fostering safe and inclusive communities.
- Dance Flash Mob for Reproductive Justice
Date: March 8, 2025
Location: Boston, MA
About: Boston will rise on International Women’s Day (March 8) with a Dance Flash Mob for Reproductive Justice. Join in a public performance to take action and raise awareness.
- OBR Portland ME
Date: March 29, 2025
Location: Equality Community Center, 15 Casco Street, Portland, ME
About: Join in an afternoon of Dance, Theater, Music, Art, and Healing as resistance sponsored by Music and Magic Maine! This series of free mini workshops by artists will provide an outlet of expression for the LGBTQIA+ community in Portland, as well as inviting victims of Domestic violence and Sexual Assault to participate. For those who prefer a quiet corner there will be reiki, somatic bodywork and tarot available.
Forthcoming Risings
Keep an eye out for additional Risings soon to be announced!
We are so grateful for all of you organizing, supporting, and participating in Risings across the country. Together, we are building a future free from gender based violence. Download the toolkits, register your events, and join us on February 20th to connect with this incredible global community.
In solidarity,
Taína Asili
U.S. Coordinator, One Billion Rising
