Dancing Beyond Borders: Art, Advocacy and Identity with Gabriel Mata

09/06/23 • 24 min

In this episode, Gabriel Mata's journey as an undocumented immigrant and artist advocate leads us from Mexico to Southern California, to his current role in Washington D.C. Dance became his voice as he navigated his undocumented status and queer identity. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of dance, the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants, and his unwavering commitment to uplifting his community through art and advocacy.
Episode Credits:
Host: Norma Sorto
Guest: Gabriel Mata
Episode Interviewers: Cristela Bonilla and Christine MacDonald
Episode Scriptwriter: Flavia Olivera
Episode Editor: Claudia Peralta Torres
Music by Blue Dot Sessions:
Resolute - Even Dreams of Beaches
Cholate - Arizona Moon

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Previous Episode

From Words to Legacy: Empowering Latino Voices with Nicolás Kanellos

In this episode, we sit down with Nicolás Kanellos, the founder of Arte Público Press, to discuss his longstanding commitment to uplifting Latino voices in the literary world. We'll explore his journey from founding a Latino literary magazine during the Civil Rights movement to launching bestselling authors like Sandra Cisneros. We'll also dive into the complex issues surrounding Latino representation in literature, such as the need for more Spanish-language books published in the United States and how through his work, Nicolás has recovered written material in multiple mediums archiving the legacy of Latinos in the United States through literature.

Episode Credits:
Host: Norma Sorto
Guest: Nicolás Kanellos
Episode Interviewers: Fernanda Poblete González, Deanna González, and Jaclyn Porpiglia
Episode Scriptwriter: Flavia Olivera
Episode Editor: Claudia Peralta Torres

Music by Blue Dot Sessions:
Bodytonic - Party Sage
Cholate - Arizona Moon

Next Episode

Canvas of Change: Julio Valdez's Artistic Evolution and Impact

In this episode, Julio Valdez, an artist from the Dominican Republic, shares his experience as an artist and how his creations have evolved over time. From serene water prints capturing the beauty of his Caribbean homeland to thought-provoking artwork reflecting the politically charged atmosphere during the pandemic, Julio strives to inspire hope in those who encounter his art, initiating meaningful conversations and driving positive change in society. Learn more about the deep connections between art and social commentary, and witness Julio Valdez's unwavering passion.
Episode Credits:
Host: Norma Sorto
Guest: Julio Valdez
Episode Interviewer: Barbara Weaver-Barros
Episode Scriptwriter: Flavia Olivera
Episode Editor: Claudia Peralta TorresMusic by Blue Dot Sessions:
Moon Juice - Our Lament
Cholate - Arizona Moon