Civics Cypher: What is Democracy?
KST Presents
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
6:00pm – 9:00pm
KST Lobby | 5941 Penn Ave.
Pay What Moves You: $0 – $25
*Free child care is available during the event.
What does democracy really mean, and how do we participate in it? Join 1Hood’s Miracle Jones in conversation with Fred Quinn III — Swissvale Borough Council member, Civic Engagement Chair of the Urban League Young Professionals, Judge of Elections in Rankin, and Secretary of the Swissvale Democratic Committee — as they unpack the foundations of political process and civic engagement. Together, they’ll explore how individuals can strengthen democracy in everyday life. The evening will also feature a brief artburst by performance artists SpeciàlK and Phat Man Dee, along with an open Q&A for audience questions and discussion.
Did we ever really learn civics? KST and 1Hood Media present live sessions where government systems and civic rights get broken down. Come to KST Lounge for real talk with activists and political wiz-kids, plus live performances, and a bar. No question is too basic; everyone’s invited to engage, learn, and grab practical voter tools. With community, creativity, and conversation at the core, Civics Cyphers are your gateway to everyday political power.
*Free childcare will be available for the duration of the event at the Northway East Liberty Ministry Hub (located around the corner from KST at 117 N. Highland Ave). Ages 2–11 are welcome. Space is limited to maintain the required child-to-caregiver ratios. Those interested in childcare may submit an online request here, and KST will follow up to confirm availability.
Photo Credit: Beth Barbis / Ya Momma’s House Inc.
- ABOUT THE HOST
Miracle Jones (Host) serves as the Director of Advocacy and Policy at 1Hood Media Academy, meeting with stakeholders and impacted persons to engage around intersectional solutions and ensure communities are resourced and supported. As the director of legislative affairs for 1Hood Power, she works in the political arena as a criminal justice strategist and advocate for equity. She has organized programs in Georgia, Illinois, and Pennsylvania to raise concerns about violence, discrimination, and gentrification.
Fred Quinn III is a Swissvale Borough Council member (elected in 2023), where he chairs the Public Works committee, vice-chairs the Personnel committee, and serves on the D.E.I. Committee. He is Civic Engagement Chair of the Urban League Young Professionals, Judge of Elections in Rankin, Secretary of the Swissvale Democratic Committee, and Alumni Network Coordinator for Penn State’s Readiness Institute. Fred also serves on Allegheny County’s Drug and Alcohol Planning Council, builds Local Progress’s national Pride Caucus, and was honored with the 2025 New Pittsburgh Courier Fab40 Under 40 Award.
You may know me as SpeciàlK, Energy Lane, Goddess, nothing less and nothing more. I am originally from the Divine Realm and have since then blossomed from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I am not attached to any agency. As a chameleon art being, my art is priceless and my time is valuable, as is yours. May the creations you see merely be a reflection of the self discovery and journey: past, present, and future.
Phat Man Dee is a jazz singer, songwriter, producer, educator, abolitionist, and social justice agitatrix whose cosmic cabaret style fuses art and activism. Voted Pittsburgh City Paper’s Best Local Jazz Artist multiple times, she recently released A Thousand Miles, featuring the best in Pittsburgh jazz. In addition to her band, she sings with the Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh and performs with Qlitterati. She teaches private voice, coaches with We Rock Workshop, supports Afro American Music Institute and Pittsburgh Racial Justice Summit, and serves on the Allegheny County Democratic Committee.