Director's Note
Finding Our Voices: How the Arts Empower
This February, we celebrate Black History Month.
I was fortunate enough to attend a conference on slavery and its effects that are felt to this very day with our Creative Writers. I am in awe of the power of VOICE, the power to share stories, express experiences, and demand change. The arts, in all their vibrant forms, provide a crucial vehicle for this expression, particularly for those whose voices have been historically marginalized or oppressed. They offer a platform to challenge dominant narratives, foster empathy, and build bridges of understanding.
Throughout history, art has served as a powerful tool for social justice. It allows individuals and communities to articulate their struggles, celebrate their resilience, and envision a more equitable future. When traditional avenues of communication are blocked or inaccessible, art finds a way to break through.
As a Hispanic Woman, I think of the work of playwrights like Luis Valdez, whose "Zoot Suit" brought the Chicano experience to the American stage, exposing racial prejudice and social injustice; artistic expressions amplify minority voices, ensuring their stories are heard and remembered
From the powerful poetry of Maya Angelou to the evocative paintings of Frida Kahlo, women artists have consistently used their creative talents to challenge gender norms and advocate for equality. Angelou's words resonated with generations, giving voice to the experiences of Black women and inspiring countless others to find their own voices. Kahlo's self-portraits, often raw and unflinching, explored themes of pain, identity, and the female experience, pushing back against societal expectations and reclaiming her narrative (which can be a terrifying journey).
Black artists have a long and rich history of using their art to combat racism, celebrate Black culture, and assert their humanity. During the Harlem Renaissance, artists like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington revolutionized the American cultural landscape, showcasing the brilliance and creativity of Black artists. Their work not only challenged racial stereotypes but also fostered a sense of pride and community within the Black community. Black History Month serves as a crucial reminder of the enduring power of Black voices in shaping our world.
The arts offer more than just a means of expression; they foster empathy and understanding. By engaging with art that reflects diverse experiences, we can step outside of our own perspectives and gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of others. This is particularly important for young people, who are still developing their understanding of the world and their place in it. Exposure to diverse artistic voices can help them build empathy, challenge their own biases, and become more engaged and compassionate citizens.
This Black History Month, let's celebrate the power of art to amplify marginalized voices. Let's seek out and engage with the work of artists from all backgrounds, and let's commit to creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to share their story and be heard. Thank you to all NESA parents, by supporting the arts and empowering artists, you are helping to build a more just and equitable society for all.
Further Reading:
Art as a Catalyst For Healing -LeMonie K. Hutt
The Power of Place: Art as a Tool for Social Justice - Coshandra Dillard
Taking a Stand Through Art USC and Zoot Suit Langston Hughes
pARTners Thrift Event
our amazing NESA pARTners do SO MUCH for our students. They will be hosting a thrifting event as a fundraiser, and we would love to see you there! We are taking donations as well.
β¨ NESA pARTners Thrifting Event β¨
π Save the Date!
Join us Saturday, March 22, from 8 AM - 2 PM in the PAC parking lot for our thrift event! ποΈ
We are currently in need of donations! If you have gently used clothes and household items, now is the perfect time to give them a second life.
π¦ Next donation drop-off: Bring your items to our next NESA pARTners meetingβyour contributions will help make this event a success!
Letβs support our students and community while keeping sustainability in style! πβ»οΈ #NESApartners #ThriftForACause #SustainableStyle #DonateWithLove
NESA pARTners
π This Month with NESA pARTners! π
Weβre beyond grateful for the incredible support our parent organization, NESA pARTners, has provided this school year! In December alone, they raised $7,195 for our students and directors, along with contributions to key projects like:
πΈ $450 for photography for Steppinβ Into the Holidays
π¬ $504 for StudioBinder software
π₯ $1,000 for the Austin Film Festival
π $335 for light signage for SpongeBob
Thank you, NESA pARTners, for your unwavering support and generosity. Your dedication plays a vital role in helping our students shine and achieve their creative dreams! ππ
NESA pARTners is a dedicated parent organization committed to supporting the North East School of the Arts (NESA) students and staff across all majors. Operating behind the scenes, the group provides invaluable assistance in a variety of ways. From fundraising initiatives and providing pre-show meals to backstage support, costume creation, and box office management, NESA pARTners volunteers contribute countless hours to ensure the success of NESA events and programs.
The organization plays a crucial role in supporting NESAβs mission by funding enrichment programs, scholarships, and classroom resources through membership dues and fundraising efforts such as Silent Auctions, Family Nights, and The Big Give. The annual NESA Banquet, hosted by pARTners, serves as a celebratory culmination of the school year, recognizing student achievements. With a variety of volunteer opportunities to suit different time commitments, NESA pARTners welcomes individuals eager to contribute to the vibrant NESA community.
