Austin declares July 13 Sandra Bland Day

Sandra Bland was a 28-year-old African American woman who was arrested during a traffic stop in Prairie View, Texas, in July 2015 and died in a Waller County jail cell three days later. Her arrest, recorded on cellphone video, sparked protests across the country. Social justice and civil rights groups are applauding the city of Austin’s proclamation of July 13 as Sandra Bland Day and several events have been planned to honor her life and explore the lessons of her death. On Friday, July 12, Wildflower Unitarian Church will be airing the short film Awaken the Voice: Seeking Justice for Sandra Bland, co-sponsored by WFC Social Action Council and Undoing White Supremacy, 6:30-9 p.m., 1314 E. Oltorf St. On Saturday, July 13, Huston-Tillotson University will hold a Day of Advocacy and Healing, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 900 Chicon St.