Lily Victory and Grace “Gi” Stafford are co-vice presidents of Skate Jackson, a newly established nonprofit born from a shared love of skate culture and a vision for inclusive community building. While Jackson’s skate scene has long existed, the launch of this formal organization marks a fresh chapter—one that’s opening new doors for skaters across the city.

The turning point came in 2023, when The Slab—Jackson’s DIY skatepark on Mill Street—was demolished. The loss was deeply felt, not only by local skaters but by enthusiasts across the region who had come to appreciate its raw, community-built features. For Victory and Stafford, it was a wake-up call: Jackson needed a lasting, inclusive space where people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities could skate, connect, and grow.

Though not a skater herself, Victory is the proud mother of four children—three daughters and a son—ages 8 to 16, all of whom are passionate about skating. What began as an after-school hobby quickly became a shared family pursuit. More than just a place to play, the skatepark offered her teenage son positive role models and a sense of belonging. “It was a loss for the community, not just my family,” she says. “Although the loss for us was huge.”

Stafford discovered quad skating in 2022 and immediately found her stride. Through JXN Roller Derby, she embraced not only the sport but a supportive environment that uplifts women and champions empowerment. “I want to represent the skate community by showing up,” she says. “I want young Black girls to know they belong in these spaces, too.

That vision fuels Skate Jackson’s mission: to preserve and grow Jackson’s skate culture through shared skills, mentorship, and a commitment to inclusion. Twice a month, the group hosts SkateCraft, a free, hands-on event at their current DIY site at Mill Street and Pascagoula. These community gatherings feature skating tutorials and lessons in skatepark maintenance, like pouring concrete and patching surfaces, offering a practical education in both the sport and the culture around it.

To break down access barriers, Skate Jackson also holds Gear Drops, like the one in March at Operation Shoestring, distributing skateboards, helmets, and pads to kids who need them—planting the seeds of future skaters and leaders.

With the upcoming Midtown Art Park & Skate Garden on the horizon, the future of skating in Jackson is gaining momentum. Skate Jackson is proud to be shaping that future, and they invite the community to roll with them.