The theme of this year’s gathering was “Rebels and Rebellions: Past, Present, Future.” This immersive three-day event, building off the inaugural convening last year brought together dozens of accomplished storytellers—organizers, filmmakers, playwrights, journalists, and historians—to explore and reimagine borderlands as spaces of connection, resilience, and possibility. In a time where borders have been hardened and xenophobia has ticked up rapidly, it is more critical than ever to spark new ideas about how we might reorganize the culture and politics of borders.
More From This Initiative

2025 End of Year Report
2025 has been a jam-packed year at The Action Lab! To learn more about our year of sparking imaginations and driving change, check out our 2025 End of Year Report.
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SALSACTIVISM
To celebrate the one year anniversary of Sunnyside Salsa events, on November 22, we hosted an evening of mambo y gozadera at Alewife Brewing
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Powerful New Music Video from International Indigenous Hip Hop Festival Performers
Shot in the Bronx bodega made famous by Bad Bunny, check out this new video from our lead performers at the International Indigenous Hip Hop Festival.
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Rivers of Care at the COP in Brazil
In partnership with indigenous leaders and organizers, and allies from the labor movement, The Action Lab traveled to the Cop 30 in Belém, Brazil.
Beyond Elections: Building Power for Co-Governance - Reflections & Lessons for Progressive Movements
We are in the midst of a period of momentous political upheaval.
Empire City - Real History and the Realities of Policing Today
The mainstream narratives tell us that police are here to protect us.
More Highlights

2025 End of Year Report
2025 has been a jam-packed year at The Action Lab! To learn more about our year of sparking imaginations and driving change, check out our 2025 End of Year Report.
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Electrifying New Music Video from IIHHF Headliner Drezus
A new music video from Drezus, one of the headlining acts from our International Indigenous Hip Hop Festival.
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Outtakes and Behind the Scenes Footage from Drezus Recording
Take a look at some outtakes and behind-the-scenes footage of International Indigenous Hip Hop Festival performer Drezus recording a new song.
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Sunnyside Salsa Anniversary Party
Highlights from a year of Sunnyside Salsas, including the anniversary party 🎉 in November 2025!
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The Action Lab and Hands Off NYC Concert
On November 21st, as part of the Fall of Freedom, The Action Lab teamed up with Hands Off NYC to organize a concert in defiance of authoritarianism and unlawful federal attacks on New Yorkers!
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SALSACTIVISM
To celebrate the one year anniversary of Sunnyside Salsa events, on November 22, we hosted an evening of mambo y gozadera at Alewife Brewing





