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Join me in celebrating Latino identity this Hispanic Heritage Month. As Guest Artist of the Smithsonian National Postal Museum I learned how to create Smithsonian learning labs. I can’t think of a more inspired individual to get this conversation started than Judy Baca. Please check out my first learning lab on artist, muralist, educator and activist Judy Baca who empowers communities. Sharing her portrait created for National Museum of the American Latino.
LEARNING LAB
https://learninglab.si.edu/collections/judy-baca/iYuBWov4r8VUG0ld
#AmericanLatinoMuseum
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Please check out this short film Somos directed by Alberto Ferreras for the National Museum of the American Latino . https://latino.si.edu/exhibitions/presente/map/somos-theater-6-16#somos
#AmericanLatinoMuseum
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Growing up I remember nostalgic weekends listening to the uniquely Mexican sound of Mariachi music in Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City. Colorful songs that tell stories of celebration, struggles, lost love and joy. Mariachi music is an emblem of Mexican cultural heritage with roots in the United States and followers around the globe. Excited and honored to share the vibrant spirit of Mariachi music with five new Mariachi Forever stamps I created for the United States Postal Service.The 2022 Mariachi stamps will be available soon online and at a post office near you. ¡Viva Mariachi!
The pandemic has been a rollercoaster of physical, emotional and social challenges that have left children and families afraid and exhausted. Many children are challenged by learning online, feeling stuck inside, bored or struggling with transitions and change. Many of these struggles are unfamiliar and frustrating. But there is reason for hope.
Within the illustrations, I wanted kids to know that generations who came before them found a way to overcome incredible struggles and challenges and they can too.
How do we learn from the past? How can we as individuals, as community support children and families to face the challenges of life?
With comforting, encouraging words and art, I hope our book will empower children and families. To be uplifting and let kids know that they have the creativity it takes to imagine a brighter world.
Compass of humanity, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Arch had an infectious smile and laugh. A storyteller, he brought people together and eased tensions with his wit, activism, courage and integrity. I’m guessing the stars will shine brighter tonight honoring this luminary of global peace.
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