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On Friday, June 20th, the energy at Art is Bond was electric as more than 120 guests gathered for a sold-out evening of celebration, reflection, and community. In partnership with the Montclair History Center and St. Mark’s Church, the fundraiser marked a powerful step forward in honoring Montclair’s Black history—and securing its future. The event raised funds for a permanent commemorative marker at the James Howe House, the former home of Montclair’s first Black property owner, once enslaved and later emancipated in 1831. In heartfelt remarks at the close of the evening, board member Nicole Gray reminded the crowd that they were raising more than just glasses—they were raising their collective voices in the fight against Black erasure. “The Howe House is more than a building. It’s a symbol of presence where presence was once denied.” she said. We are deeply grateful to the following sponsors whose generosity helps bring the vision of Friends of the Howe House to life: AAPI NJ, Montclair Brewery, UUCM, Union Congregational Church, Montclair State University, BGill Foundation, Uniquest Inc, Ironbound Farm, Watchung Booksellers, Montclair NAACP,MBSC, CASA of Essex, Willow North PM, and YMCA of Montclair.
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