El Sol Latino | April 2024 | 20.5

Foto del Mes /Photo of the Month Remembering our April 2014 Edition

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contents

2 Foto del Mes /Photo of the Month

Remembering our December 2018 Edition

3 Portada / Front Page Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade

4 Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade

5 El Sol Latino: A Community Based Newspaper Plays a Key Role in Publishing Social and Cultural Information for Western Massachusetts

7 New EdTrust Report Shows that Very Few Latino Students are Enrolled in Private Institutions

8 American Library Association Reports Record Number of Unique Book Titles Challenged in 2023

9 Educación / Education

Estudiantes de UPR Aguadilla son galardonados como investigadores emergentes en Washington, DC

10 STCC Recognized Leadership During International Women’s Month

AIC President Benitez Steps Down

11 Cultura / Culture

Cumbre Internacional de Afrodescendencia rinde Homenaje a Curador Afropuertorriqueño Edwin Velázquez Collazo

12 Bomba de Aquí Inaugura su Nuevo Centro Cultural

13 Libros / Books

Arturo Alfonso Schomburg: Racial Identity and Afro-Caribbean Cultural Affirmation

Chicano Frankenstein

14 Blackness in Mexico : Afro-Mexican Recognition and the Production of Citizenship in the Costa Chica

Inhabiting the Impossible: Dance and Experimentation in Puerto Rico

15 Finanzas / Finances

Nuestras Raíces Celebra la Finalización del Curso de Contabilidad para Pequeños Negocios

Founded in 2004 n Volume 20, No. 5 n April 2024

Editor Manuel Frau Ramos manuelfrau@gmail.com 413-320-3826

Assistant Editor Ingrid Estrany-Frau

Art Director Tennessee Media Design

Business Address El Sol Latino P.O Box 572 Amherst, MA 01004-0572

Editorial Policy

El Sol Latino acepta colaboraciones tanto en español como en inglés. Nos comprometemos a examinarlas, pero no necesariamente a publicarlas. Nos reservamos el derecho de editar los textos y hacer correcciones por razones de espacio y/o estilo. Las colaboraciones pueden ser enviadas a nuestra dirección postal o a través de correo electrónico a: info@elsollatino.net.

El Sol Latino welcomes submissions in either English or Spanish. We consider and review all submissions but reserve the right to not publish them. We reserve the right to edit texts and make corrections for reasons of space and/or style. Submissions may be sent to our postal address or via electronic mail to: info@elsollatino.net.

El Sol Latino is published monthly by Coquí Media Group. El Sol Latino es publicado mensualmente por Coquí Media Group, P.O Box 572, Amherst, MA 01004-0572.

El Sol

Latino: A Community Based Newspaper Plays a Key Role in Publishing Social and Cultural Information for Western Massachusetts

Precursors of what we recognize today as newspapers appeared in Ancient Rome and later developed during the Middle Ages in a variety of formats (Online Encyclope¬dia Bri¬tannica, “Newspapers”). Johanne Guttenberg’s invention of move-able type in the 15th cen¬tury led to a mas¬sive expansion of typed print manu¬scripts, thus aiding the growth of the newspa¬pers and lit¬er¬acy throughout Europe. What came to be known as newspa¬pers, were a “a form of mass communica¬tion and mass me¬dia usually issued daily, weekly, or at other regular times that (provided) news, views, features, and other in¬formation of public in¬terest” (Online Ency¬clopedia Britan¬nica, “Newspa¬pers”). News¬papers began to surface in a variety of forms during the 15th and the 16th cen¬turies throughout Europe and Asia. For good or ill, newspapers have played a key role in the formation of modern political states and national identities, with all of their flawed entitlements.

Indeed, the founding of these United States of America worked itself through the vigorous debates held during the Constitutional Convention (1787-1789). More¬over, in pursuit of the ratification of a governing document, what was to be¬come the United States Constitution, “a series of 85 essays (were) written by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madison,” to be published in the papers of their day (https://bens¬guide.gpo.gov/m-federalist-pa¬pers-1787-1788). Once they were available to the public, the reader¬ship perused the 85

by JOSÉ P. ARCE and MIGUEL L. ARCE

es¬says, and so the debate continued amongst the citizens outside the Convention Hall. The Constitution was then ratified, but not before a Bill of Rights was promised to be¬come a cen¬tral addon to the al¬ready com¬pleted document, which with the Bill of Rights became what we now call the U.S. Constitution.

By fact check¬ing the over¬blown narratives, misleading ex¬planations, and blatant lies of selfimportant leaders, newspa¬pers hold to account those who would govern the country for their own benefit. Men and women who might govern and reach decisions based largely on self-interest can be inves¬tigated and held up to public scrutiny. Showing little concern for public interests and their constit¬uents they would reveal themselves to be unscrupulous and unworthy of our support and respect. Those uncaring men and women can and should be voted out of office. Events of recent years have re¬minded us that, unfortunately, those flawed and criminal politicians are not easily prosecuted. Nevertheless, we are still able to reject their political agendas and vote them out of office.

Multicultural communities are becoming ever more aware of their rich cul-tural heritage and so are progressively giving voice to their communal pride. They are actively pressing for positive social and economic change. Diverse groups of marginalized commu¬nities are be¬coming more adept at work¬ing through the re-strictive rules and reg¬ula¬tions of habitually majority controlled in¬sti¬tutions. White privilege is being chal¬lenged through state and na¬tional legis¬latures, the judi¬cial system, and lo¬cal commu¬nity involvement. However, it is clear that the men and women who have taken for granted their “priv¬ilege” will not eas¬ily let their entitlements go. Men and women are needed to chal¬lenge a status quo that has routinely disre¬garded the poor and the defenseless. Of course, poor children and their strug-gling parents are going to be intentionally ignored by the “one percenters,” espe-cially if public

continued on page 6

Left to right: Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Mary Ann Coughlin; Professor Miguel Arce; Keynote Speaker, Ed Caisse; President Mary-Beth Cooper, and State Representative Carlos González/ Photo Credit: Springfield College Marketing

Dancer Mariana Ayala, Bomba de Aquí/ Photo Credit: Springfield College Marketing

El Sol Latino: A Community Based Newspaper Plays a Key Role continued from page 5

reforms and protests upend their self-perceived “rightful place” and their tight control of immense wealth.

There is an important role for local community newspapers to hold up the banner declaring a campaign of benevolent activism on behalf of under-represented men and women, and their children. John Lewis (1940-2020) often ex¬pressed the sentiment, it is the right time to “get in good trouble, necessary trou¬ble, and help redeem the soul of America.” As we remember Lewis’s dreams, it is apparent that El Sol Latino is a different kind of media. For instance, this monthly newspaper promoted the Springfield College Con¬ference (March 13, 2024) titled “Fostering Equity and Inclusion for Latinas/ os in Child and Fami¬ly Welfare.” El Sol Latino has shown itself to be a robust force for political, social, and cul¬tural edu¬ca¬tion. It recognizes commu¬nity leaders and ac¬tively engages with the

Latina/o public in the region. It identifies and laments the widening disparities that exist between members of the minority communities and the controlling majority.

Those in charge of El Sol Latino work and live to support and defend the Latinas/os communities of Western Massachusetts. Dissemination of bene¬ficial knowledge is paramount for com¬munity education. Existing as a news source for the diverse community or¬ganizing efforts that take place is a vital role to play, because such a role pro¬motes significant reform. As a me¬dia source, this news¬paper has been sup-portive of Springfield Col¬lege’s many engagements with the local communi¬ties, espe¬cially with those that have been consist¬ently mar¬ginalized. As a commu¬nity-oriented newspaper El Sol Latino ele¬vates the needs and discourse of commu¬nity challenges and reports the variety of proffered solutions by engaged citizens to problems of ignored and dis¬regarded populations. The readers of this monthly newspa¬per are connected by geographical, cul¬tural, so¬cial, or economic roots asso-ciated with the Latina/o com¬munity.

Un podcast sobre la historia del archipiélago de Puerto Rico y el Caribe Conversaciones con expertos sobre el tema y personalidades de interés.

El Sol Latino provides a platform for discussion and exchange of ideas within the local mi¬nority populations, as well as be¬tween the minority and the major¬ity communi¬ties. It serves as an es¬sential re¬source and as such pro¬vided effective infor-mation about the Conference that took place on March 13, 2024. When working with Springfield Col¬lege, El Sol Latino has had a two-fold aim, to spread infor¬mation to a public that is tradition¬ally ig¬nored and to act as a vehicle for so¬cial re¬form. It is a resource that would oth¬er¬wise be unavailable. A critical awareness of an increas-ingly divided soci¬ety is evi¬dent in this local monthly newspa¬per’s for¬mat and the many English and Spanish articles that it publishes monthly. El Sol Latino cherishes the Latina/o people in Western Massachusetts and in turn we gratefully acknowledge and support its professional reporting and ex¬cellent cover¬age of the region.

Left to right: Frank Robinson, PhD, Luis Orlando Isaza Villegas Orlando Isaza and Miguel Arce Photo credit: Springfield College Marketing

New EdTrust Report Shows that Very Few Latino Students are Enrolled in Private Institutions

WASHINGTON, DC | THE EDUCATION TRUST | February 28, 2024 -

On the heels of the United States Supreme Court decision upending affirmative action in higher education admissions, the nation has been inundated with a wave of anti-DEI and anti-immigration actions. No doubt these policy aggressions have had a negative effect on Latino students. So, what is the responsibility of university leaders to ensure effective recruitment and retention of Latino students? How can the nation’s top universities best serve Latino college students? A new EdTrust report seeks to answer these questions and more.

“Segregation Forever? The Continued Underrepresentation of Latino Undergraduates at the Nation’s 122 Most Selective Private Colleges and Universities,” the comprehensive report released today, is another chapter of the series of EdTrust research that sheds light on the enduring under-representation of undergraduate students of color in the nation’s most selective private colleges and universities. This report examines the ongoing challenges faced by Latino students in accessing higher education opportunities. According to EdTrust’s policy analyst and report author, Sandra Perez, “Institutional leaders and policymakers must address historical inequities and systemic barriers in all levels of higher education. This report shows that despite being the fastest-growing demographic since 2000, Latino students have lacked access to some of the country’s most prestigious institutions. Failure to address the historic exclusions of these marginalized communities at elite universities will have a collective impact on our nation’s social and economic prosperity.”

Through an analysis of enrollment data and access scores that look at the years 2000 and 2022, well before the end of affirmative action, EdTrust research reveals slow progress in diversifying student bodies, with most institutions still failing to adequately represent Latino populations. Recommendations for campus leaders and policymakers emphasize the need for concerted efforts to improve access and address systemic barriers hindering Latino student enrollment and success in these institutions.

“Amid a climate of unprecedented anti-immigrant and anti-Latino sentiment, we must have a new resolve to go further to achieve equity in higher education. This EdTrust report, in conjunction with our own brief, outlines what selective colleges and universities must do to ensure access and support for Latino students, despite the Supreme Court’s disappointing decision last year. This is important not only for the Latino community, but for our nation’s future,” said Amalia Chamorro, director, Education Policy Project, UnidosUS.“

Key recommendations outlined in the report emphasize the imperative for concerted efforts among campus leaders and policymakers to dismantle barriers and create pathways for Latino student enrollment and success. These recommendations include but are not limited to:

• Developing recruitment strategies that increase access

• Improving campus racial climates

• Leveraging federal accountability

• Increasing accountability from accreditors

At a time when the nation is grappling with pressing issues of equity and access in higher education, the findings of this report serve as a national call for decisive action. The onus lies on campus leaders,

policymakers, and advocates to confront systemic barriers and foster environments that champion diversity, equity, and inclusion for all students.

EdTrust is committed to advancing policies and practices to dismantle the racial and economic barriers embedded in the American education system. Through our research and advocacy, EdTrust improves equity in education from preschool through college, engages diverse communities dedicated to education equity and justice, and increases political and public will to build an education system where students will thrive.

American Library Association Reports Record

Number of Unique Book Titles Challenged in 2023

CHICAGO, IL | AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION News | March

15, 2024- The number of titles targeted for censorship surged 65 percent in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching the highest levels ever documented by the American Library Association (ALA). The new numbers released today show efforts to censor 4,240 unique book titles* in schools and libraries. This tops the previous high from 2022 when 2,571 unique titles were targeted for censorship.

person’s constitutionally protected right to choose and read books that raise important issues and lift up the voices of those who are often silenced. By joining initiatives like Unite Against Book Bans and other organizations that support libraries and schools, we can end this attack on essential community institutions and our civil liberties.”

ALA will unveil its highly anticipated list of the top 10 most challenged books in the U.S. on Monday, April 8, which is Right to Read Day of National Library Week, along with its full State of America’s Libraries Report.

ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom documented 1,247 demands to censor library books, materials, and resources in 2023. Four key trends emerged from the data gathered from 2023 censorship reports:

• Pressure groups in 2023 focused on public libraries in addition to targeting school libraries. The number of titles targeted for censorship at public libraries increased by 92 percent over the previous year; school libraries saw an 11 percent increase.

• Groups and individuals demanding the censorship of multiple titles, often dozens or hundreds at a time, drove this surge.

• Titles representing the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals made up 47 percent of those targeted in censorship attempts.

• There were attempts to censor more than 100 titles in each of these 17 states: Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

“The reports from librarians and educators in the field make it clear that the organized campaigns to ban books aren’t over, and that we must all stand together to preserve our right to choose what we read,” said Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom. “Each demand to ban a book is a demand to deny each

“Every challenge to a library book is an attack on our freedom to read. The books being targeted again focus on LGBTQ+ and people of color. Our communities and our country are stronger because of diversity. Libraries that reflect their communities’ diversity promote learning and empathy that some people want to hide or eliminate,” said ALA President Emily Drabinski. “Libraries are vital institutions to each and every community in this country, and library professionals, who have dedicated their lives to protecting our right to read, are facing threats to their employment and well-being.”

In response to the surge of book challenges and efforts to restrict access to information, ALA launched Unite Against Book Bans, a national initiative to empower readers everywhere to stand together in the fight against censorship. The coalition will mark its second anniversary during National Library Week. For more information about ALA and its intellectual freedom efforts, visit www.ala.org. For a breakdown for censorship challenges by state visit this heat map.

* ALA compiles data on book challenges from reports filed with its Office for Intellectual Freedom by library professionals in the field and from news stories published throughout the United States. Because many book challenges are not reported to the ALA or covered by the press, the 2023 data compiled by ALA represents only a snapshot of book censorship throughout the year. A challenge to a book may be resolved in favor of retaining the book in the collection, or it can result in a book being restricted or withdrawn from the library. The American Library Association (ALA) is the foremost national organization providing resources to inspire library and information professionals to transform their communities through essential programs and services. For more than 140 years, the ALA has been the trusted voice for academic, public, school, government and special libraries, advocating for the profession and the library’s role in enhancing learning and ensuring access to information for all. For more information, visit www.ala.org.

Estudiantes de UPR Aguadilla son galardonados como investigadores emergentes en Washington, DC

AGUADILLA, PR | UNIVERSIDAD DE PUERTO RICO - AGUADILLA

| 18 de marzo de 2024- Cuatro estudiantes e investigadores emergentes del Departamento de Ciencias Naturales de la Universidad de Puerto Rico en Aguadilla (UPRAg) presentaron sus proyectos de investigación subgraduada, junto a su mentora la Dra. Juliana Pérez Laspiur, catedrática asociada del dicho departamento, en la Conferencia Nacional de Investigadores Emergentes (ERN, por sus siglas en inglés) Ciencia, Tecnología, Ingeniería y Matemáticas (STEM) que se llevó a cabo este fin de semana en Washington, DC.

La conferencia ERN está enfocada en ayudar y apoyar a estudiantes subgraduados y graduados proveyendo oportunidades de desarrollo de destrezas de comunicación científica y diversas actividades de desarrollo profesional, y así prepararlos para una carrera en ciencias STEM.

“Este año se presentaron cerca de 600 afiches en diversas áreas por estudiantes subgraduados y graduados. Estoy muy contenta de anunciar que los estudiantes Wilgeyshka

Acevedo y Yavier Nazario ganaron el primer lugar en la categoría de Ciencias Biológicas, Microbiología, Inmunología y Virología, mientras que Stephanie González obtuvo el segundo lugar en la misma categoría en su presentación de afiche”, destacó con gran emoción su profesora mentora, la doctora Pérez Laspiur. Asimismo, Paola Rodríguez Montoyo se destacó en su presentación oral, respaldada por el Programa MSEIP Solaris, dirigido por la Dra. Nancy Cardona, mientras que Alanis Dávila Santiago, bajo la mentoría del Dr. Miguel Méndez, Catedrático del Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, presentó su trabajo en formato de afiche.

“Este éxito refleja el compromiso y la excelencia de los estudiantes y profesores de la UPR en Aguadilla en el ámbito de la investigación científica y como líderes en el campo de las ciencias STEM a nivel nacional e internacional”, destacó la doctora Sonia Rivera González, rectora de UPR en Aguadilla.

Los participantes de la UPRAg en la ERN fueron: Wilgeyshka

Acevedo Acevedo, Stephanie González Avilés, Javier Galarza Avilés y Yavier Nazario Caseres, todos ellos activos en diversos proyectos de investigación desarrollados en el Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Celular de la institución.

«Como juez de afiches en la categoría de Biología Celular y Molecular, tuve el privilegio de explorar potenciales colaboraciones futuras y oportunidades de becas para mis estudiantes», mencionó la Dra. Pérez Laspiur, resaltando el valor de eventos como la ERN para la formación académica y profesional de los jóvenes científicos.

Los proyectos de investigación de los estudiantes fueron respaldados por los Programas MSEIP Connect, bajo la dirección del Dr. LeeBorges, el Programa AREA R15 de NIH, liderado por la Dra. Pérez Laspiur, y el Programa ROUSS de PR-LSAMP de UPR-RP.

Javier Galarza y Stephanie González fueron beneficiarios de la beca de viaje otorgada por el programa MSEIP Connect, mientras que Wilgeyshka Acevedo y Yavier Nazario recibieron la beca de viaje directamente de la Conferencia ERN.

La Conferencia Nacional de Investigadores Emergentes (ERN) en Ciencia, Tecnología, Ingeniería y Matemáticas (STEM) está organizada por la Asociación Estadounidense para el Avance de la Ciencia (AAAS), los Programas de Ecosistemas STEM Inclusivos para la Equidad y la Diversidad (ISEED) y la Fundación Nacional de Ciencias. (NSF) División de Desarrollo de Recursos Humanos (HRD), dentro de la Dirección de Educación y Recursos Humanos (EHR).

Estudiantes de UPR Aguadilla, junto a su mentora Julianna Pérez Laspiur

Educación / Education

STCC Recognized Leadership During International Women’s Month

SPRINGFIELD, MA | SPRINGFIELD TECHNICAL COMMUNITY

COLLEGE | March 18, 2024 – In a ceremony celebrating International Women’s Month, Springfield Technical Community College recognized three exemplary individuals who embody the spirit of service, engagement, and leadership.

The Lead Female Leadership & Mentoring Program at STCC presented Community Leadership awards to student Chelsie Rivera, faculty member Dr. Vanessa Hill, and staff member Wilma Tynes.

STCC held its ceremony on March 6, two days before International Women’s Day was officially recognized. The campus event featured the presentation of leadership awards, a panel discussion, networking, and local female-owned businesses as vendors.

Speaking at the ceremony, Vice President of Student Affairs Darcey Kemp read a proclamation from President Biden calling on all Americans to observe March as Women’s History Month and to celebrate International Women’s Day.

“Today’s International Women’s Day celebration is an opportunity to recognize the achievements of women while fostering unity, support, and empowerment,” Kemp said.

Dr. Melishia Santiago, Assistant Dean of STEM, presented the faculty award to Hill, a professor of Math at STCC. STEM stands for science,

AIC President Benitez Steps Down

SPRINGFIELD, MA | AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE | March 19, 2024- American International College announced today that Hubert Benitez plans to step down as President of the College effective as of the end of the current academic year on June 7, 2024. Frank Colaccino, Chair of the AIC Board of Trustees, said that Nicolle Cestero, who serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at AIC, will be appointed Interim President immediately.

In accepting President Benitez’s resignation, Colaccino said, “I thank President Benitez for the service he provided to AIC over the past two years. Hubert’s leadership in developing the AIC Reimagined strategic plan was exemplary, and AIC will continue to benefit from that leadership as we execute the strategic initiatives embedded in that strategic plan.”

technology, engineering, and math. STCC is a Hispanic Serving Institution and the only technical community college in Massachusetts.

“Dr. Hill continuously strives to inspire our students and make positive impacts at STCC and within our community,” Santiago said.

“She’s highly supportive of women of color in STEM as well as women in STEM fields. She is a shining example of what can be accomplished through passion, hard work, and a deep-seated belief in the power of one’s conviction.”

Alissa Torres, a student advocate at the Center for Access Services (CAS) at STCC, presented the staff leadership award to Tynes, Assistant Dean of Student Dupport at STCC. CAS provides a broad range of non-academic support for students to help them overcome barriers.

“Ms. Tynes has provided steady leadership and oversight of TRIO Support Services for which STCC has consistently exceeded outcomes and program expectations,” Torres said. TRIO SSS helps students adjust to the college environment.

Tatiana Lamas, an STCC student and peer mentor for the Lead program, presented the student leadership award to Rivera, a student in Electrical Engineering Technology and member of the Society of Women Engineers at STCC, which promotes and elevates community college women pursuing engineering fields.

“She’s a hard-working mom and is passionate about being an example for all women in this field. She is continuously learning, mentoring, and motivating others,” Lamas said.

Offering welcoming remarks at the event, Karolyn Burgos Toribio, the Community Outreach Counselor for Lead, asked attendees to remember women who paved the way for progress and change.

“From trailblazers in business to leaders in innovation, women have continuously shattered barriers and defied expectations,” Burgos Toribio said. “Together, let us strive for a world where gender equality is not just a dream but a reality.”

Andrea Gedeon, Title V HIS Grant Financial Literacy Coordinator, moderated the panel discussion with Vice President of Family Services for Square One Melissa Blissett, and Waleska LugoDeJesús, CEO of Inclusive Strategies, LLC, and founding director of the Healing Racism Institute.

They shared their experiences and strategies for fostering inclusivity in the workplace, addressing barriers, and driving cultural change.

In his letter of resignation, Benitez said, “I want to thank the Board of Trustees for the opportunity it has granted me to serve AIC. It has been rewarding work with a committed team of colleagues reimagining the future of the College. While there are still vast opportunities to advance the mission of AIC, the collective efforts and progress made to date on executing the institution’s strategic initiatives fill me with hope, and I trust that these efforts will bear fruit in the near future.”

Benitez added, “I made this decision by engaging in a deep process of prayer and discernment, and after thoughtful consideration and reflection with my family, I have decided to focus on the next chapter of our lives.”

continued on next page

From left, award recipients student Chelsie Rivera, faculty member Dr. Vanessa Hill, and staff member Wilma Tynes

Cultura / Culture

Cumbre Internacional de Afrodescendencia rinde Homenaje a Curador Afropuertorriqueño Edwin Velázquez Collazo

Nota del editor. Agradecemos a Edwin Velázquez Collazo por permitirnos reproducir este artículo publicado en PUERTORICOBLACKART.BLOGSPOT.

SAN JUAN, PR | PUERTORICOBLACKART.BLOGSPOT.COM | Marzo 2024 - Bajo el lema “Nuestras diásporas de cada día: Globalización, migración y desplazamientos actuales” la tercera edición de la Cumbre Internacional de Afrodescendencia (Cumbre Afro) – fue celebrada del 18 al 23 de marzo de 2024 en Puerto Rico y dedicada a Haití en reconocimiento por su aportación histórica al ser la primera república negra en el mundo.

Mesa Magistral “Curando lo Afro”, moderada por Abdiel Segarra, junto a los curadores Carlos Ortiz Burgos, Maria Elba Torres Muñoz, Luis Graham, Glorisabel Santos y Maria Alice Rezende. Edwin Velázquez Collazo a la extrema izquierda.

Con invitados provenientes de países como Haití, Ecuador, España, Alemania, Estados Unidos, Cuba, Sudáfrica, México, Perú,Nigeria, entre otros, también se le rindió un homenaje al curador Edwin Velázquez Collazo en un acto de reconocimiento por sus esfuerzos en la investigación, difusión y promoción del arte afropuertorriqueño.

La escritora Mayra Santos Febres, directora del evento, señaló: “Por ello, la Cumbre Afro rinde tributo a Edwin Velazquez, quien ha luchado tanto por magnificar nuestras artes visuales afrodescendientes. Gracias Edwin, por tanto, y sobre todo,por llevarnos de la mano a esa otra orilla que es el futuro de la reexistencia y la visibilidad de nuestros productores de conocimiento belleza, de todas nuestras representaciones en respeto y dignidad.”

Al mismo le fue dedicada la Mesa Magistral “Curando lo Afro”, moderada por Abdiel Segarra, donde participó junto a los curadores Carlos Ortiz Burgos, Maria Elba Torres Muñoz, Luis Graham, Glorisabel Santos y Maria Alice Rezende. Así como la exposición

AIC President Benitez Steps Down

colectiva “La Otra Orilla” con obra de los artistas afrocaribeños Brenda Cruz, Edizon Federico León, Jean “Baco” Ortiz, José Arturo Ballester, Lyddiana Davila, Tessa Mars, Wilay Mendez Paez, Yolanda Velázquez y el propio Edwin Velázquez Collazo.

El curador nacido en Santurce, Puerto Rico en 1961, obtuvo su Bachillerato en Arte con Concentración en Pintura en la prestigiosa Escuela de Artes Plásticas de Puerto Rico en 1988, fue pionero en señalar una estética afro en el arte puertorriqueño al organizar en 1996 la histórica exposicion “ Parentesis: ocho artistas negros contemporaneos” en la cual participaron Arleen Casanova (19672013), Ramón Bulerin, Awilda Sterling, Gadiel Rivera, Liz D. Amable, Daniel Lind y Jesús Cardona. Además como gestor cultural fue fundador de la Asociación de Artistas Plásticos de Puerto Rico y de los proyectos digitales Puerto Rico Art News y Black Art in Puerto Rico. En la actualidad se desempeña como director de Casa Silvana, la cual fundó en 2021, como un espacio rural alternativo dedicado al arte afro puertorriqueño que alberga La Afroteca, la primera biblioteca afrocéntrica en Puerto Rico especializada en la historia de las artes plásticas de la diáspora africana y la cultura afropuertorriqueña así como la única Colección de Arte Afropuertorriqueño compuesta con sobre 50 obras de 30 artistas negros y afrodescendientes de la isla y su diaspora. El curador también es miembro de la Asociación Internacional de Críticos de Arte (AICA-USA) y recientemente fungió como comisario de Puerto Rico para la 3ra Bienal Black Brazil Art 2024 de Río de Janeiro, organizada por la destacada curadora, historiadora y museóloga, la Sra. Patrícia Brito, directora del Instituto de Arte del Brasil Negro. En los pasados años ha ganado premios y distinciones del National Endowment for the Arts, Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña, Fundación Ángel Ramos, Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico, Fundación de Puerto Rico, Fundación Rockefeller, Mellon Foundation, Beta Local y The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.

continued from page 10

Colaccino said the tenure of President Benitez’s service as President of the College was marked by a number of progressive actions designed to promote the mission of AIC and his effective leadership in the development of AIC Reimagined, the strategic plan that will guide the initiatives undertaken by the College during the coming years. “AIC deeply appreciates the contributions made by President Benitez to the mission of the College during his tenure as President, and we wish him well as he embarks on the next new and different chapter of his life and his family’s life,” Colaccino said.

Nicolle Cestero, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed Interim President of American International College, to serve until the next President of the College has been identified.

Cestero has been with AIC since 2011 when she joined as the Associate Vice President for Human Resources. She has served the

College as Chief of Staff and most recently as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

Prior to joining AIC, her professional journey began in New York City at the Council on Foreign Relations, a leading nonpartisan foreign policy think tank in the U.S., focused on disseminating information to members, government officials, and the public on matters of international significance. She holds a Master’s of Business Administration degree from AIC, a Master of Arts degree from the University of West Florida, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Mount Holyoke College. According to Colaccino, as COO, Cestero has overseen the day-to-day operations of the College and played a key role in implementing AIC’s strategic plan. Colaccino said the College is in the process of engaging a search firm to assist with a national search for the next President of American International College.

Edwin Velázquez Collazo

Cultura / Culture

Bomba de Aquí Inaugura su Nuevo Centro Cultural

El pasado jueves 28 de marzo de 2024 se inauguró en la ciudad de Holyoke el estudio y centro cultural afro-puertorriqueño de Brendalíz Cepeda y Saúl “El Pulpo” Peñalosa. El estudio, ubicado en 413 High Street, marca una nueva fase del matrimonio de estos versátiles músicos y gestores culturales.

La apertura del nuevo centro significa el regreso de estos dos artistas a la ciudad donde todo comenzó. Hasta hace poco, tenían su estudio y centro cultural en la vecina ciudad de Granby.

Brendaliz es ex-alumna del Programa Business Accelerator de EforAll de Holyoke. Hace años Brendaliz y Saúl co-fundaron el Multicultural Learning Center con la misión de promover las tradiciones, el folclor, las artes y el baile de Puerto Rico. Hoy en día el MultiCultural Learning Center sirve de recurso a aproximadamente 20 escuelas en la región. El matrimonio ofrece talleres de baile y música afropuertorriqueña a escuelas públicas, instituciones universitarias, iglesias y otras organizaciones comunitarias.

Brendaliz Cepeda, hija de Roberto y Carmen Cepeda, es parte de una nueva generación de la Familia Cepeda que ha tomado la iniciativa de continuar la tradición familiar de preservar y mostrar este rico patrimonio musical en todo el mundo. Brendaliz es nieta de Don Rafael Cepeda Atiles, patriarca de Bomba y Plena, y su esposa Doña Caridad Brenes, considerados como uno de los exponentes más famosos de la música folclórica afropuertorriqueña.

Brendaliz se mudó a Massachusetts en 2001. Desde su llegada, participó en eventos, charlas y talleres de Bomba y Plena y en numerosas actividades culturales de la región entre los cuales se encuentran Restaurante Salsarengue, y Bombazo: Bomba y Plena en Veterans’ Park, ambos en Holyoke.

El 14 de julio de 2018, Brendaliz produjo y fue la artista principal de la producción musical “Por Mi Cultura Vivo” celebrada en el reconocido centro artístico CityStage, en Springfield, MA. El magno concierto reunió a muchos reconocidos y talentosos músicos y bailarines de la bomba y la plena: Brendaliz Cepeda y su grupo Bomba de Aquí, el reconocido músico Saúl “El Pulpo” Peñaloza, Mujeres de la Bomba, Los Gigantes de La Plena de Freddy Rivera, Zachary Torres, María Furlow, el intérprete de poesía afro-caribeña Darwin Jerry Cruz, y el tenor Charlie Berríos, entre otros.

Saúl “El Pulpo” Peñaloza, reconocido músico de folclor afrocaribeño se crió en el residencial Luis Llorens Torres en la ciudad de San Juan. Producto de la escuelas públicas de Puerto Rico, Saúl “El Pulpo” se identificó desde temprana edad con la música de la bomba y la plena gracias a un maestro de música de su escuela quien era natural de Loíza Aldea. Este pueblo es considerado la capital del folclor Afro-Boricua de Puerto Rico. La Bomba se considera la primera música autóctona de Puerto Rico. Una vez relocalizado en el oeste de Massachusetts, Saúl “El Pulpo” mantiene sus raíces musicales vivas al conectarse con otros músicos locales del género de la bomba y plena. Eventualmente, Saúl se convierte en el director, cantante y tamborista principal del reconocido grupo Bomba de Aquí de Brendaliz Cepeda. En el 2015, Saúl y Brendaliz se unen en matrimonio.

Saúl “El Pulpo” se destaca por su gran versatilidad musical, especialmente como percusionista. El apodo de “El Pulpo” viene de su destreza y habilidad natural de tocar los panderos de plena tanto con la mano derecha como con la izquierda, algo que es muy raro entre los músicos de plena. Además, Saúl ha incursionado en otros géneros musicales caribeños, tales como el merengue, como parte del conjunto La Chocoband. En adición, es el productor y anfitrión del Podcast Diáspora Cultural que se transmite por Facebook Live y YouTube los miércoles a las 8:30 pm.

Brendaliz Cepeda, Saúl “El Pulpo” Peñalosa, Jualian Gerstain, Geraldo Tapia Rosario y Nelson Bello.

Libros / Books

Arturo Alfonso Schomburg: Racial Identity and Afro-Caribbean Cultural Affirmation

by HAYDEÉ E. REICHARD

DE CARDONA Ph D (Author, Preface), MIRIAM M. GONZÁLEZ-HERNÁNDEZ Ph D (Editor), DAVID AUERBACH Ph D (Translator), ADA MYRIAM FELICÉ SOTO Ph D (Foreword), ROBERTO PÉREZ REYES (Contributor), PABLO CANCIO REICHARD Ph D (Contributor) • Independently published | May 9, 2023 | 128 pages

Overview

In Arturo Schomburg: Racial identity and Afro-Caribbean cultural affirmation, Dr. Haydée Reichard-De Cardona, enlightens important historical-biographic facts that have remained unsettled for years over the controversial figure of the black intellectual Arturo Schomburg; including: his origin or birth, mistaken genealogy, early years as a young man in San Juan, educational formation, and hardships, crossing or migratory experience from St. Thomas to San Juan of Puerto Rico and from there to New York, games of identity and his integration to the Club Dos Antillas to the deed of the leaders of the Cuban revolution, and groups of black intellectuals.

It is a serious but enjoyable piece of investigative study, duly and thoroughly documented with baptismal certificates, lists of ship passengers, acts of matrimony, minutes of clubs and logia meetings, death certificates, references to genetic proofs undertaken by family members, and others.

This book by Dr. Reichard offers a new perspective, both from the

Chicano Frankenstein by DANIEL

A. OLIVAS

Description

standpoint of facts and theory about the enigmatic personality and identity of Arturo Schomburg. Undoubtedly, it should be read and form an indispensable part of the Studies of Arturo Schomburg and be considered by historians, and scholars dedicated to the field.

Reviews

“With the skill of a genealogist and the insight of a historian, Reichard has produced by far the most rigorous and meticulous work on a longstanding riddle of Schomburg’s family background.” —Dr. Jesse Hoffnung-Garskof—professor of American History and Culture at Harvard University

“I don’t know if Arturo Alfonso Schomburg – least of all Arthur A. Schomburg – ever visited the town of Aguadilla. I doubt it. But Haydée Elena Reichard, Aguadilla chronicler, tries to establish a connection between the unknown young socialist tabaquero (Arturo Alfonso) and the later famous bibliophile of neo-African culture in the Americas (Arthur A) with our people. Once again, her passion for genealogy leads Dr. Reichard to explore baptismal certificates, marriage certificates, and death declarations to illuminate an interesting fact in the history of her town, our hometown.” —Efrain Barradas Professor Emeritus University of Florida. Corresponding Academician of the Academia Puertorriqueña de la Lengua Española.

• PORTLAND, OREGON | FOREST AVENUE PRESS | March 5, 2024 | 222 pages

An unnamed paralegal, brought back to life through a controversial process, maneuvers through a near-future world that both needs and resents him. As the United States president spouts anti-reanimation rhetoric and giant pharmaceutical companies rake in profits, the man falls in love with lawyer Faustina Godínez. His world expands as he meets her network of family and friends, setting him on a course to discover his first life history, which the reanimation process erased. With elements of science fiction, horror, political satire, and romance, Chicano Frankenstein confronts our nation’s bigotries and the question of what it truly means to be human.

Reviews

“If you’re looking for a reverberating literary experiment in a speedy read, Daniel Olivas’s Chicano Frankenstein is the book for you. In this literary pastiche of timeless novels, beloved TV, and familiar political narratives, the love story of Faustina and the man will reanimate your deepest expectations of humanism into new understandings of monstrosity.” —Xochitl Gonzalez, author of Olga Dies Dreaming

“In Daniel A. Olivas’s alt-world political satire Chicano Frankenstein, we follow his reanimated main character, ‘the man,’ in his search for identity in a world that is increasingly hostile to him and his kind. With its tongue firmly planted in its cheek, this important novel is at once frightening and humorous, and I found myself laughing out

loud more than once as Olivas cleverly delivered his cautionary message, served with a basket of fresh baked pan dulce.” — Orlando Ortega-Medina, author of The Fitful Sleep of Immigrants “In the genre-bending tradition of Mary Shelley, Daniel Olivas’s latest novel Chicano Frankenstein expertly stitches together gothic political satire, science fiction, and existential metafiction to expose the racist and classist hypocrisies that undergird the American political economy under tyrannical right-wing leaders.” —Eileen M. Hunt, author of Artificial Life After Frankenstein

About the author

DANIEL A. OLIVAS, the grandson of Mexican immigrants, was born and raised near downtown Los Angeles. He is an award-winning author of fiction, nonfiction, plays, and poetry including, My Chicano Heart: New and Collected Stories of Love and Other Transgressions (University of Nevada Press, forthcoming), How to Date a Flying Mexican: New and Collected Stories (University of Nevada Press), and Things We Do Not Talk About: Exploring Latino/a Literature through Essays and Interviews (San Diego State University Press). Widely anthologized, he has written on culture and literature for The New York Times, Los Angeles Review of Books, Los Angeles Times, Alta Journal, Jewish Journal, Zócalo, and The Guardian. He writes regularly for La Bloga, a site dedicated to Latinx literature and the arts. Olivas received his degree in English literature from Stanford University, and law degree from UCLA. By day, Olivas is an attorney and makes his home in Southern California with his wife (and law school sweetheart), Susan Formaker, who is an administrative law judge.

Libros / Books

Blackness in Mexico: Afro-Mexican Recognition and the Production of Citizenship in the Costa Chica

by ANTHONY RUSSELL JERRY •‎GAINESVILLE, FL | UNIVERSITY PRESS OF FLORIDA |

Description

Through historical and ethnographic research, Blackness in Mexico delves into the ongoing movement toward recognizing Black Mexicans as a cultural group within a nation that has long viewed the non-Black Mestizo as the archetypal citizen. Anthony Jerry focuses on this process in Mexico’s Costa Chica region in order to explore the relational aspects of citizenship and the place of Black people in how modern citizenship is imagined.

Jerry’s study of the Costa Chica shows the political stakes of the national project for Black recognition; the shared but competing interests of the Mexican government, activists, and townspeople; and the ways that the state and NGOs are working to make “Afro-Mexican” an official cultural category. He argues that that the demand for recognition by Black communities calls attention to how the Mestizo has become an intuitive point of reference for identifying who qualifies as “other.” Jerry also demonstrates that while official recognition can potentially empower African descendants, it can simultaneously reproduce the same logics of difference that have brought about their social and political exclusion.

May 16, 2023 | 234 pages

One of few books to center Blackness within a discussion of Mexico or to incorporate a focus on Mexico into Black studies, this book ultimately argues that the official project for recognition is itself a methodology of mestizaje, an opportunity for the government to continue to use Blackness to define the national subject and to further the Mexican national project.

Reviews

“A robust, compelling engagement with ideas about and the existence of Blackness in modern Mexico and its vexed relationship to contemporary Mexican citizenship.”—Herman L. Bennett, author of Colonial Blackness: A History of Afro-Mexico

About the author

ANTHONY RUSSELL JERRY holds a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.His primary research interests are in theorizing the relationships between race and citizenship and investigating the influence that regional discourses of race and racism have on citizenship practices and overall access to citizenship. He is the recipient of a Fulbright Garcia Robles Fellowship, a Ford Foundation Dissertation Fellowship, and a University of California Chancellor’s Postdoctoral Fellowship. He has worked in the Costa Chica Region of Mexico for over 10 years. His work also explores the impacts of issues of migration, immigration, racism, and citizenship on first generation youth and youth of color in the U.S./Mexico border region.

Inhabiting the Impossible: Dance and Experimentation in Puerto Rico

by SUSAN HOMAR & NIBIA PASTRANA SANTIAGO • ANN ARBOR, MI | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN PRESS

Description

This first-of-its-kind book brings together writing by artists and scholars to survey the lively field of Puerto Rican experimental dance across four decades. Originally published as Habitar lo Imposible, the translation in English features essays, artist statements, and interviews plus more than 100 photos of productions, programs, posters, and scores. Throughout, Inhabiting the Impossible provides fresh, invaluable perspectives on experimentation in dance as a sustained practice that has from the start deeply engaged issues of race, gender, sexuality, and politics. The book is also enhanced by a bibliographic section with detailed resources for further study.

Reviews

“Enters into current conversations about the connections between corporealities, choreography, dance, geopolitics, identity construction and ideas of nation, race, gender, class and sexuality, political agency and artistic practices--and the circulation of these concepts in the Americas. The book will interest scholars, students, practitioners and those interested in Latin American cultural theory, aesthetics, political studies, anthropology, or gender and sexuality studies.”- Anamaria Tamayo-Duque, Universidad de Antioquia

“This history of experimental dance in Puerto Rico also serves as a model for understanding the aesthetic impacts of dance within particular cultural and political contexts. Further, it foregrounds the voices of artists as it narrates the importance of dance as a mode of cultural manifestation, whether on the street, in living rooms and kitchens, within ritual sites, in abandoned, repurposed spaces, or on

| December, 2023 | 330 pages

concert stages.”- Jennifer Monson, University of Illinois

About the author

Dance scholar SUSAN HOMAR was, until her retirement, a professor at Universidad de Puerto Rico. NIBIA PASTRANA SANTIAGO is an artist and choreographer based in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Nuestras Raíces Celebra la Finalización del Curso de Contabilidad para Pequeños Negocios Finanzas /

Por MANUEL FRAU RAMOS

Nuestras Raíces, una de las organizaciones sin fines de lucro de mayor reconocimiento dedicada a fomentar el empoderamiento económico en Holyoke, Massachusetts, recientemente celebró exitosamente la finalización de su curso de contabilidad para propietarios/as hispanoparlantes de empresas. La graduación se llevó a cabo el pasado 21 de marzo en la sede de la organización ubicada en 329 Main Street en Holyoke, MA.

Izquierda a derecha, fila de atrás: Hilda Roque - Directora Ejecutiva de Nuestras Raíces, Carmen Marrero, Nelitza Martínez, Franchesca Pagán, Marta Venegas, Samalid Hogan- Directora Ejecutiva de Greylock Management Consulting. Al frente: Sandra Hernández, María Oliveras González, Beatriz Colón. Ausente: Juan Díaz.

El programa es una colaboración entre Greylock Management Consulting, firma de consultoría dirigida por mujeres y minorías con sede en el oeste de Massachusetts y Nuestras Raíces. El programa fue subsidiado por fondos de Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation.

El programa empresarial, con una duración de seis semanas, está diseñado a capacitar a los empresarios/as hispano-parlantes en los principios básicos gerenciales necesarios para manejar exitosamente un pequeño negocio. A través de una instrucción integral ofrecida por Greylock Management Consulting, las participantes aprendieron acerca de los principios teóricos y fundamentos básicos de la contabilidad y adquirieron conocimientos prácticos de contabilidad. Esto les permitirá tener un control de las operaciones económicas para registrar, analizar e interpretar de manera sistemática la información financiera de sus negocios.

El programa en español atrajo a un grupo diverso de ocho participantes, estudiantes entusiastas y deseosos/as de mejorar su visión para los negocios. Las/los participantes salieron equipados/as con las herramientas y el conocimiento necesarios para navegar con confianza los aspectos financieros de sus empresas

En un comunicado de prensa, Hilda Roque, Directora Ejecutiva de Nuestras Raíces, resaltó el logro de los/as participantes al señalar que, “Estamos felices de celebrar el fruto y el arduo trabajo de nuestros dedicados participantes quienes, al finalizar el curso de contabilidad, han adquirido valiosas habilidades que les permiten enfrentar los desafíos del mundo financiero con confianza y profesionalismo”. También recalcó que, “En Nuestras Raíces, estamos comprometidos a brindar recursos accesibles y educación para capacitar a los miembros de nuestra comunidad para que prosperen en sus esfuerzos empresariales”.

Samalid Hogan, Directora Ejecutiva de Greylock Management Consulting, felicitó a los/as graduandos/as, “Extendemos nuestras más sinceras felicitaciones a todos los/as graduados/as de Mastering Accounting for Small Businesses™”. Ha sido un honor para nuestro equipo facilitar este viaje transformador y esperamos ser testigos del éxito continuo de estos propietarios de negocios empoderados”.

Nuestras Raíces es una organización sin fines de lucro dedicada a promover el desarrollo económico, humano y comunitario a través de proyectos relacionados con la alimentación, la agricultura y el medio ambiente. Para obtener más información sobre Nuestras Raíces y próximos programas, visite https://nuestras-raíces.org.

Greylock Management Consulting es una firma de consultoría dirigida por mujeres y minorías con sede en el oeste de Massachusetts, que se especializa en asesorar a pequeñas empresas y fomentar el empoderamiento económico dentro de comunidades desatendidas.

Fine Arts Center

Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana presenta FRONTERAS

Sábado, 20 de abril | 8:00 PM | Frederick C. Tillis Performance Hall

Asientos Reservados $55, $45 y $35 – Jóvenes menores de 17 y estudiantes de los Five College $15

We close our season of performances on the Frederick C. Tillis Performance Hall main stage in much the same fashion as we opened it - with a masterful and mesmerizing program of percussive kineticism and graceful movement.

Cerramos nuestra temporada de actuaciones en el escenario principal del Frederick C. Tillis Performance Hall de la misma manera que la abrimos: con un programa magistral y fascinante de cinético percusivo y movimientos elegantes.

Founded in 1983, Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana is one of America’s premier flamenco companies. Based in New York City and Durham, North Carolina, the company seeks to promote flamenco as a living art form and a vital part of Hispanic heritage; produce and perform high quality dance works; provide arts education programs that catalyze connections among young people; and nuture the next generations of Spanish dance artists and educators. Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana believes the universal spirit of flamenco - with diverse influences from Arab, Jewish, Roma, Spanish, African, and Latin American cultures - gives the art form a unique power to build bridges between people.

Fundada en 1983, Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana es una de las principales compañías de flamenco de Estados Unidos. Con sede en la ciudad de Nueva York y Durham, Carolina del Norte, la compañía busca promover el flamenco como una forma de arte viva y una parte vital de la herencia hispana; producir e interpretar obras de danza de alta calidad; proporcionar programas de educación artística que catalicen las conexiones entre los jóvenes; y nutrir a las próximas generaciones de artistas y educadores de danza españolas. Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana cree que el espíritu universal del flamenco, con diversas influencias de las culturas árabe, judía, romaní, española, africana y latinoamericana, le da a esta forma de arte un poder único para construir puentes entre las personas.

FRONTERAS is a new work choreographed by two of flamenco’s most exciting artists: Jose Maldonado and Karen Lugo, with an original score by Jose Luis de la Paz.

FRONTERAS es un nuevo trabajo coreografiado por dos de los artistas más apasionantes del flamenco: José Maldonado y Karen Lugo, con una partitura original de José Luis de la Paz.

What’s included:

* A brief introduction to crystal meditation

* A guided meditation

* A Pink Tourmaline Stone

The

Phone Number: 413-682-5923

(text option is available)

Email: info@mysticwillow.co

47 Perkins Street - Chicopee, MA 01013

of this Crystal Guided Meditation Series is to

power. We will explore utilizing crystals and lunar energy to establish our intentions in the guided meditation.

Saturday, April 13, 2024 7:00 PM — 8:30 PM

Do you find pleasure in the sound of wind chimes on a breezy day? These musical instruments bring a magical and peaceful ambiance to outdoor settings. If you prefer an indoor space or rather capture the suns touch, consider crafting a suncatcher instead. A suncatcher can elevate any space with its shimmering, rainbow-like display. Use these tools to set your space intention! Our

We will be working with Pink Tourmaline for this session. Pink Tourmaline is a powerful crystal that enhances the capacity for love, courage, and compassion. It facilitates a connection between the Root and Heart Chakras, encouraging grounding and heart-centeredness.