Robson Square Arts Coalition
robsonsquarearts@gmail.com
For immediate release
May 13, 2025
Vancouver dance community hosting fundraiser for victims of Lapulapu attack
The Robson Square Arts Coalition (RSAC), a multi-ethnic group of street dancers and street dance organizations, is hosting a unique fundraiser to assist the victims, families, and communities affected by the Lapulapu attack.
The free public event, “Dance Party and Fundraiser,” takes place on Saturday, May 17 from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at the Robson Square Ice Rink, 800 Robson Street at the lower level. Free dance lessons in hustle (partner dance) and grooving (solo dance) will be offered. These are just two of the street dance styles rooted in the culture of enslaved black people and Latinx people promoted by RSAC.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, organizers, first responders, residents and the Filipino community deeply impacted by this loss,” said the group in a public statement. “Filipinos have been central to shaping the street dance culture at Robson Square and we are committed to showing up and caring for one another.”
Boris Khramtsov, member of RSAC and organizer of the event, says, “In our moment of grief, we reaffirm our belief to not retreat from public life. Robson Square is just one of the many public spaces in our city that helps to bring us together. We will show our support of the people and communities affected by raising funds, celebrating life, and enjoying community in an open and public space in the heart of downtown Vancouver.”
Featuring three local DJ legends (DJ Ice-B, DJ Static, and DJ Rina), the event and workshops do not require pre-registration and will occur rain or shine. Donations will be taken at the event with the money being split between the United Way BC’s Kapwa Strong Fund and the Qani Recovery Expenses GoFundMe.
Qani is one of several dancers who were victims of the April 26, 2025 attack. An Indigenous person who lives in Bella Bella, they travelled to Vancouver for a weekend trip to celebrate the festival, which had a decolonial and celebratory focus. Qani is currently recovering from their injuries, but their GoFundMe has not yet achieved its goal. All other dancers who have established GoFundMes have reached their fundraising goals.
For further information, contact Ning Alcuitas at 604-338-7075