Proyecto Latina ™

Drum roll please: We're moving....

2010-02-28T15:09:00.004-06:00

...over here.

We are happy to share that our Proyecto Latina online site is moving to a new platform! We have been working very hard to get this project done. We are currently in 'beta' mode while we resolve minor tech hiccups. If you catch something, please let us know. So, please, GO EXPLORE!

What does that mean for you?

This site is staying but this is our last post here.
All new updates can be found here.
We have imported our complete archives (including comments) therefore we are turning-off the comments feature here.
If you want to comment on a post that you found on our blogger-site, search for it on the new site and comment there.
Because of the way Google Friends Connect works on blogger we cannot 'take' our current friends with us--we know, major bummer.
To ensure you stay connected you will need to "follow" us by going to our new site and re-subscribing again.

Those are the only changes for now. We will continue sharing comings-and-goings of Latinas making an impact in our communities. And we have some plans that may mean even more interviews and resources. In the meantine we would love feedback on what's working and what needs refining. You can also pitch us your story ideas at: info@proyectolatina.org.

From Knitting To Photography

2010-02-21T15:14:00.016-06:00

We wanted to take a moment to formally welcome our newest Proyecto Latina team member Thelma Uranga. Last year, we featured her and now she is back as our photographer. She's getting ready to take off to Guadalajara, MX for some fun and photography and will return with a photo narrative of her trip.

Thelma Uranga is a photographer interested in the tensions inherent when looking at cultural identity within contemporary American society. Thelma received a BA in Studio Art/Photography from Illinois State University in 2008. During her time in Bloomington-Normal, her photographic work focused on the area’s youth and their cultural duality as children of immigrant parents living in America. In 2008, Thelma was recognized by the Center for Visual Arts at Illinois State University when she received the University Galleries Award in Photography at the Student Annual. In 2007, she participated in the Pilsen Open Studio and in the summer of 2009, Thelma served on the teaching staff at Yollocalli Arts Reach, a youth initiative of the National Museum of Mexican Art. Thelma is also an avid knitter; she is the co-founder and main organizer of El Stitch y Bitch: a multi-cultural knitting circle that collectively creates large-scale projects and public works. Currently, Thelma is exploring cultural identity on a personal level through fiber-based installation works and is also interested in documenting the current state of her hometown Cicero, IL, a bustling Latino community.

Contact info: Thelma.Uranga@gmail.com

Proyecto Latina Recap - Ruth On The Rocks

2010-02-21T14:39:00.013-06:00

If you didn't get a chance to come to Proyecto Latina this past Monday here is a visual snippet of a hilarious evening with our feature Ruth Guerra. She brought us everything from stories about the tooth fairy to blind dates.

We had a fabulous audience full of great chismes including this one anonymous one:

My acupuncturist says that my uterus is angry because I have not had a baby yet. I think my uterus is being a little unfair.

If you were at Proyecto Latina that evening or at other Proyecto Latina events and had a blast at our event let us know. Send us your comments or feedback at info@proyectolatina.org

Ruth recounting the time she ended up calling the calling the Columbia College radio station and ending up on a hilarious blind date. As I was sitting there watching Ruth do her thing I could help think, "Wow! What a wonderful storyteller Ruth is!"

Ruth Guerra is all smiles with Irasema Gonzalez (left) and myself at Cedahlia's Café.

If you have suggestions for features you would like to see us present we'd love to hear from you.

Send us in a 100 words or less what makes your feature suggestion so awesome to info@proyectolatina.org

Domingo Newsbytes

2010-02-21T14:36:00.000-06:00

Happy Sunday Everyone! Hope you are done doing laundry, grocery shopping and now relaxing. Here is a little recap of Latinas in the news for your reading pleasure. As always, if you see a story in the news about or impacting Latinas please share the link with us at info@proyectolatina.org. Last call for news link is every Saturday by noon.

Here is our round up:

HEALTH

The largets study ever of breast cancer in Latin American women is being launched in a unique multi-country, public/private partnership with $1 million in additional funding from the world's largest breast cancer organization, Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

More than one in four Latinas is a mother by the age of 19, was included in a report by the Pew Hispanic Center.

Every year there is a growing epidemic of teenage Latinas attempting to commit suicide. Find out about a teen suicide prevention program for Latina teenagers and their family. The program is run by Dr. Rosa Gil.

Many undocumented women fail to report domestic violence because they fear deportation. Help is available through the Violence Intervention Program, a nationally recognized Latina organization that provides services to women of domestic violence.

Domingo Newsbytes

2010-02-14T08:02:00.011-06:00

Happy Chinese New Year! It's now the year of the Tiger and we hope you are getting ready to pounce into the year with good vibes and prosperity. This Sunday is also Valentines Day! Double Happiness! We hope you aren't running down the street being chased by a cupid with sharp arrows instead we hope it's filled with heart shaped candy, lots of love and maybe even some flowers.

This week the Chicago Foundation for Women announced the awardees of this year's IMPACT Award and among them was Veronica Arreola. Felicidades!

Proyecto Latina kicks off Monday, Feb. 15th with Ruth On The Rocks @ Cedahlias Cafe @ 7pm so bring something to share and some chisme for the chisme box!

Here is our weekly round up of Latinas in the news:

Local

Pros Arts Studio Mobil Lab at Dvorak Park offers a free computer lab for people looking for jobs online or want to improve their computer skills.

Extra Newspaper Columnist Rebecca Sanchez reports that in the Little Village neighborhood food distribution from 2008-09 has increased by 95%.

Education/Language
North Carolina school secretary loses her job for translating to Spanish-speaking parents.

Health & Wellness
Latinas tend to have higher rates of diabetes than non-Hispanic white women, but there’s a silver lining, says psychologist Jane Delgado in her new book, “The Latina Guide to Health: Consejos and Caring Answers.”

Entertainment
America Ferrera talks to Bust Magazine about Hollywood racism.

During the week if you see stories about Latinas or that impact the Latina community send us the links and we will post them in our Domingo round up. Send to info@proyectolatina.org

February Feature: Ruth on the Rocks

2010-02-08T17:22:00.001-06:00

This month Proyecto Latina is thrilled to present writer/performer Ruth Guerra. She will be doing a reading/performance called Ruth On The Rocks that explores the act of dating and casual encounters from the point of view of several women's ideal image of what it should be.

Arrive early to grab a chair, settle-in, and sign up to share some of your work and drop a friendly chisme in the Chisme box.

Ruth Guerra hails from the south side of Chicago, the Back of the Yards neighborhood where eating tacos de la Internacional, cruisin’ to house music, and the ability to hinder the stockyards’ stench are just some of the wonderful attributes that contribute to her personality. As a kid, she watched shows like El Palomo, Chiquilladas and Kids Incorporated, encouraging her to create and perform her own sketches and routines for friends and family in her parents’ garage. Her love for the windy city, took her to Second City where she learned the art of improvisational theater and performed with several ensembles. Shortly after, she discovered a new found love in storytelling and moved on to do theater. Her theatrical debut was in 2005 with Teatro Americano and since has been performing with different groups in the city. Ruth recently embarked on a memoir writing journey where she sticks to her roots as she documents her life experiences in Chicago.

Monday, February 15 @ 7PM - FREE
Cedalhia Cafe
1010 S. Western
Chicago, IL
http://www.mapquest.com
Street parking available

Photo by Thelma Uranga. Thanks to our venue sponsor: Cedahlia Cafe.

Domingo Newsbytes

2010-02-07T12:44:00.015-06:00

Its Superbowl Sunday--we hope the team you're rooting for wins--we are happy to share a couple of touchdowns of our own this week. First, make sure to check out our most recent audio essay, The Firefighter's Hat by Yolanda Cardenas--the story generated some encouraging comment feedback and we were also happy to see it tweeted by Fire Daily a Chicago portal for and by firefighters. Second, we are also happy to introduce Proyecto Latina alumna, Thelma Uranga as our newest contributor. Thelma is a photographer and Stitch y Bitch founder and she will be helping us with photo assignments. Her first is the portrait at the top of this post, Ruth Guerra our February 15th, 2010 feature--event details coming soon.

Now, our weekly roundup:

Leading health concerns for Latinas
Via Wise Latinas Linked we found out that: Breast cancer is the number one cancer killer of Latinas, most of it due to late detection, their post features an organization in California that aims to change that. Another leading hazard is heart disease, according to the American Heart Association, via My Latino Voice, Hispanic women on average develop heart disease ten years earlier than their Caucasian counterparts. On a more positive note, Spanish-speaking mothers are creating an advantage for their children--they're turning off the t.v.

Bolivia tackles gender equality in government
One new appointment as a result of these efforts is Nemecia Achacollo, a 39-year-old mother and grandmother who rose through farmworkers unions, was recently tapped to become minister of land and rural development just days after she became a member of congress.

Literary Latinas
Editorial consultant Marcela Landres interviews founding publisher of Palabra Magazine, elena minor. Palabra is a Chicano and Latino literary magazine, check out their guidelines and consider submitting your work. Author Zetta Elliott took an innovative approach to publishing her novel, A Wish After Midnight, about a black-Latina teen who travels back in time.

Also of note...
The cover story for Cafe Magazine this month is Blacktino, the issue includes profiles of people and families living the Afro-Latino experience including local freelance curator and DJ Sadie Woods. We're kind of bummed that we can't link you to the stories but you can find free copies of this magazaine at various distribution points throughout the city--I usually grab a copy in Pilsen.

The Firefighter's Hat

2010-02-02T14:43:00.006-06:00

Yolanda Cardenas with her father in 1976.

The Firefighter's Hat by Yolanda Cardenas 7:57

"Chicago missed out on an exceptional firefighter but I never missed out on an exceptional father."

Yolanda Cardenas reflects on growing up in Back of the Yards, a field trip to the neighborhood firehouse, and a missed opportunity for her father.

Doming Newsbytes

2010-01-28T11:56:00.013-06:00

The first month of 2010 has ended and we hope your year is off to a great start. We are getting geared up for our February Proyecto Latina and are excited to be featuring Ruth Guerra--look for those details later in the week. For now its the Sunday round-up of Latinas in the news and other media.

Chicago Sun-Times Columnist, Esther Cepeda and Maria de los Angeles Torres, Director of the Latin American and Latino Studies Program at the University of Illinois at Chicago
got a chance to chime in on Chicago's New Latino Political Landscape on WBEZ this week.
A quick point made by Torres in that segment is that Latinos who speak English and Spanish make make better salaries, that reminded me of a completely different story where actress Jessica Alba shares a completely different motive for hiring a Spanish language teacher to ensure she raises a bilingual daughter.

Speaking of Latina moms and their children--check out how one mom and son blog together in South Texas to air their greivances about Cesar Chavez missing in school textbooks.

Marisa Treviño at Latina Lista breaks down a new study that shows a rise in teen pregnancies--with higher rates for Latina and Black girls--that correlates with the timing of federal promotion of abstinence-only programs. Treviño spotlights a program that is striving to change those odds for Texas teens--the bottom line: Me now...baby later.

Domingo Newsbytes

2010-01-24T14:21:00.010-06:00

Well another week has passed us by and hopefully you were able to sleep in a little later and now have a cup of coffee in hand along with your Proyecto Latina Domingo NewsBytes. Here are some links we wanted to share with you. If you see any interesting articles on Latinas send them to us and we will include them in the Sunday round up. Send them to info@proyectolatina.org

Did you know that evasive cervical cancer is most prominent in Latinas than in white women? Find out what the Planned Parenthood in Madison, WI is doing to educate Latinas on cervical and breast cancer.

Could La Llorona have been suffering from post partum depression? Approximately 1 in 10 mothers get the post partum blues after delivering a baby.

Learn To Be A Latina directed by Mary Gúzman is scheduled to open in February as part of Impact Theatre's season of theatre.

West Coast blogger Cyndi Lu of Loteria Chicana is contemplating some very tasty looking Chilaquiles. Read more!

New to the blogosphere is Veronica Lopez and her Ay Mama blog on Chicago Now. She shares her thoughts on raising kids in Chicago while Chicana On The Edge Regina Rodriguez - Martin writes about her experience getting married while in her 40's.

Please note the photo above is courtesy of thisisharmonie.blogspot.com

Join us for a 5th birthday and a little more

2010-01-18T15:42:00.007-06:00

Date: Monday, January 18, 2010 @ 7 p.m.

Featuring: Stephanie Diaz Reppen

Held at: Cafe Cedahlia, 1010 S. Western, Chicago, Il

Domingo Newsbytes

2010-01-16T20:03:00.009-06:00

Last Sunday, we announced that we are adding a new feature to our site. A week in review of Latinas in news. If you see something in the news that is either about Latinas or impacts the Latina community send us the link to info@proyectolatina.com

Proyecto Latina has reasons to celebrate
-We kick-off our 5th year this Mon., Jan., 18th on Martin Luther King Day. Event details.
-We are happy to announce that we have received our first grant by the Fire This Time Fund.

Ericka Gutierrez co-owner of The 35th Street Cafe in McKinley Park has welcomed Proyecto Latina into her space in the past. We were thrilled to see a recent profile of her lovely establishment and how its quickly becoming a gathering place for her community in the Chicago Tribune.

More First appointments for Latinas The first two weeks of 2010 saw two more historic appointments: Carmen Milagros Ortiz becomes the first Latina to be sworn in Massachusetts and Eva Guzman becomes the first Latina to be appointed to the Texas Supreme court.

Why women need abortion rights a commentary that explores access to abortion for underage and poor women including the risky practice of self-induced abortions among Latina and immigrant women. This got us thinking about Stephanie Diaz Reppen's powerful audio essay.

Stephanie's Reprieve

2010-01-11T12:00:00.003-06:00

Reprieve,9:12
Newly married and just starting to try for a baby, Stephanie Diaz Reppen reflects on a choice she made over ten years ago--it was the repreive of her 26th summer.

Stephanie, a Guatemalan-American writer/performer is the Proyecto Latina feature for January 2010. She will be reading an excerpt from her novel-in-progress, You Can't Call the Indians Maria Anymore. She will also premiere a new performance piece entitled Dichos, featuring the mesmerizing art of Bunraku puppetry, and starring "Abuelita." Get bio and event details here.

Front and Center: Ahora las Mujeres

2010-01-10T22:15:00.008-06:00

Proyecto Latina, November 2009, Ivonne Canellada unveils her poetic side and Paloma Martinez-Cruz lets her musical side shine.

A couple of weeks back Francisco Aragon, director of Letras Latinas, invited a group of Latinas, "to think about the period 2000 – 2009 and write 300 words about a "poetry event" that impacted you in some special way—that is, in a positive way." Francisco explains, "I simply wanted to hear...a perspective that was missing in the Poetry Foundation roundup.

You can read my reflection, that includes the story behind the photos above, along with contributions from six other Latinas in Ahora las Mujeres, which proves we have plenty to share.

Latinas On The Move - Week In Review

2010-01-05T20:25:00.009-06:00

Today we wanted to do a week in review of Latinas in news for you to enjoy with your Sunday morning coffee. We hope to make this a regular feature so if you see something in the news that is either about Latinas or impacts the Latina community send us the link to info@proyectolatina.com

Nancy Andrade dishes out tasty tamales and savvy business advice...check out The Chicago Tribune's full article.

We are excited that poet Julia de Burgos is being honored by the U.S. post office with her own stamp so the next time you are mailing something out make sure you have your Burgos stamps. Check out Liternista!

We are also sad to hear of 37-year old song bird Lhasa passed away...a fitting tribute at the Canadian Globe and Mail.

The magic of the Three Kings

2010-01-03T16:15:00.017-06:00

The magic of the the Three Kings has been a part of Liza Ann Acosta's life since she was a child. As an adult she still believes in The Three Kings and relives the magic of the holiday every January 6th by making a pilgrimage to her father's town, Juana Diaz in Puerto Rico, where a grand celebration takes place. Listen to her story below.

The magic of the Three Kings (11:50)

Dominizuelans: gearing-up to be comedy bosses

2009-12-22T22:00:00.016-06:00

Watch out world Wendy Mateo and Lori Diaz, the masterminds of Tall Hispanic-Short Hispanic Productions, have grand plans, "Latina comedians...we want to be the boss of it and more." With roots in New York and Florida, the pair moved to Chicago and made their Windy City debut last summer as Dominizuelans, the pen name they coined when writing their show, People in the City--a production that has earned raving reviews and is up for a second run that will open on New Years eve and run through the end of February 2010.

Proyecto Latina correspondent, Ericka Sanchez, recently caught up with Wendy and Lori and talked about their work and creative process. Listen to that conversation below

Wendy & Lori 1: The path to doing what you love. (3:50)

Wendy & Lori 2: Creative Boundries: The risks of writing about friends and family...and yourself? (2:49)

Wendy & Lori 3: Smiling faces and cultural lessons (4:22)

Wendy & Lori 4: Future plans: a production company and a new play (5:05)

Interview and photo by Ericka Sanchez

Gratitude Y Gobble Gobble

2009-11-24T19:18:00.010-06:00

It’s that time of year again of turkeys, the smell of pumpkin pie and spending time with family and friends. Before the hustle and bustle of the holidays begins and gets the best of us we wanted to “dar gracias” to our Proyecto Latina family.

This year Proyecto Latina has grown and I can’t help but feel such AWE and inspiration when I think back at all the amazing Latinas that have been featured, participated in the open mic or simply came to enjoy.

As we continue to build community in the arts and beyond we thank you for supporting our monthly reading series or for simply stopping in and checking out some of the interviews we’ve done and spreading the word. This year we worked really hard to bring you relevant and useful content on Latinas impacting our community. Next year we plan to bring you more exciting programming at our reading series as well as expanded online content. In December we will be sharing a sneak peek of what we’ve got lined up in 2010.

In the spirit of reflection we’d love to know what you’re thankful for this Thanksgiving season?

I also asked Proyecto Latina correspondent Yolanda Cardenas what she was thankful for and she said "new artistic collaborations, her amazing family and American healthcare reform".

Lastly, we wish you and your family a safe and fabulous Thanksgiving!

Abrazos,

Diana Pando & The Proyecto Latina Team!

Creativity, Celebration & Beer With Ellen Wadey

2009-11-23T18:12:00.005-06:00

Proyecto Latina wanted to take a moment to thank Ellen Wadey for all of her hard work over at the Guild Complex. She has always been a wonderful supporter of emerging poets and writers including our own artistic endeavors.

Ellen will be stepping down from the Guild Complex in December. We are sad to see her go but we are super excited that she will be focusing on her own creative pursuits! In honor of Ellen we’d like to extend an invitation to our Proyecto Latina family to come out for a special creative celebration for Ellen as she embarks on her creative journey. We hope to see you there!

Bon Voyage, Ellen Wadey

Saturday, December 5, 2009

California Clipper, 1002 N. California (California & Augusta)

7:00 p.m. doors open. Reading begins @ 7:30 p.m.

One Poem/Short Fiction Festival featuring poets and writers who mark specific moments from Ellen's tenure @ the Guild Complex.

Free admission. Donations to the Guild Complex much appreciated.

The party will be a "One Poem" event of outstanding writers who have been closely involved with the Guild Complex over Ellen's tenure. The evening will feature: Paul Martinez-Pompa, Kimberly Dixon, Tricia Hersey, Lisa Alvarado, Erin Teegarden, Irasema Gonzalez, Toni Asante Lightfoot, Susan Messer, Diana Pando, Stephanie Gentry-Fernandez, Johanny Vazquez Paz and Gretchen Kalwinski.

For nearly eight years, Ellen Wadey has been the voice, and the heart, of the Guild Complex. At the beginning of 2009, Ellen gave notice that she wanted to spend more time on her own writing and that this would be her last year as Executive Director. Her last day will be December 31.

November Lunacy

2009-11-18T12:22:00.013-06:00

"We are so excited to be revisiting this piece...this play is quintessentially Luna, it tackles our namesake, The Moon (La Luna) and places our true-life stories in the context of myths and superstitions about women, Latinas and the moon," says Director Tanya Saracho.

Featuring some of your favorite Ensemble Members: Belinda Cervantes (Machos, S-e-x-Oh!) Maritza Cervantes (Machos, S-e-x-Oh!) Yadira Correa (Machos, S-e-x-Oh!, Jarred) Miranda Gonzalez (SîLO Tœ, Jarred) Suzette Mayobre (S-e-x-Oh!, SîLO Tœ) with Artistic Associate Maria Enriquez (S-e-x-Oh!: The Remix) and New Lunaticas Christina Nieves (S-e-x-Oh!: The Remix, The House on Mango Street), and Mari Stratton (The House on Mango Street)

For reservations / performance dates and times visit Teatro Luna

Photography by Johnny Knight

Proyecto Latina welcomes Stitch y Bitch

2009-11-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

This month Proyecto Latina features Thelma Uranga, founder of Pilsen's Stitch y Bitch and an enthusiastic knitter that's building community while cranking out scarves and hats. Knitting / crocheters are encouraged to bring their projects to work on and/or donate a swatch for the Stitch y Bitch projects: a knit piñata and/or knit graffiti. As always we will have an open mic and the chisme box.

A few weeks ago we interviewed Thelma Uranga about the Stitch y Bitch. Listen to her interview.

Monday, November 16 @ 7PM
Proyecto Latina Reading Series - FREE!
Radio Arte
1401 W. 18th Street
http://www.mapquest.com
#18th St./60 Blue Island Bus Blue Line 18th St. stop

El stitch y bitch was recently invited to present at Pecha Kucha Champaign-Urbana. Pecha Kucha is an international event in which creatives are invited to present their media in six minutes and forty seconds: 20 slides, 20 seconds per slide. El stitch y bitch’s presentation deals with the idea of knitting in communities and on them. For this Proyecto Latina night el stitch y bitch will re-play their PK presentation. El Stitch y Bitch is a culturally diverse knitting group created by Thelma Uranga & Stephanie Manriquez. Together they envisioned bringing a space to the Pilsen neighborhood where people of all backgrounds could come together and knit, drink coffee, bitch, learn from each other and indulge in lots and lots of colorful yarn. Since then, knitting in coffee shops, galleries, parks and the occasional knit graffiti have become the norm for this group of knitters, hookers and crafters.

Thank you to our community partner Radio Arte 90.5 FM for hosting us!

Women of Júarez: A conversation w/ exhibit curator, Linda Tortolero

2009-11-01T19:52:00.008-06:00

Women of Júarez: Rastros y Crónicas an art exhibit at the National Museum of Mexican Art is now open, it reminds us that what happens to one of us can happen to all of us. Ericka Sanchez and Diana Pando have interviewed a few folks, including curators and visitors, about the powerful and reflective exhibit. This is part one of the Women of Juarez exhibit. Women of Júarez: Rastros y Crónicas an art exhibit at the National Museum of Mexican Art is now open, it remnds us that what happens to one of us can happen to all of us. Ericka Sanchez and Diana Pando have interviewed a few folks, including curators and visitors about the powerful and reflective exhibit.

This is part one of the Women of Júarez exhibit. Since 1993 to the present hundreds of young women and girls have gone missing in the city of Júarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. Their raped and mutilated bodies often turn up in the desert, in vacant lots and drainage ditches and their killer(s) never brought to justice.

Broken Dreams / Los sueños rotos, 2009 mixed media on canvas by Rocio Caballero

After viewing the exhibit Diana Pando reached out to one of the curators, Linda Tortolero, to discuss the importance of this exhibit and here is what she had to say:

D: Why do you feel the Women of Júarez is an important story to tell through the arts and what do you want the impact to be for the viewer, the artist and ultimately the women of Júarez?

L: We hope that visitors to the exhibition learn about the femicide in Júarez and the underlying struggles of women in Mexico. We want to motivate the audience to take action and to acknowledge the inequalities that women face around the world. In addition, it’s important to educate visitors that art is a powerful medium by which artists and museums educate the public about important socio-economic issues. Mexico and Mexican and Mexican American artists have a long and proud tradition of reflecting on societal conditions through art. I think that for artists the creation of work is an expression of what moves them, what is important to them and what they want others to learn or know or feel. Undoubtedly, the participating artists felt greatly about the subject and the overarching challenges that women in Juarez and Mexico face. In addition, the pieces in the exhibition demonstrate the thought and reflection that the artists had and carry with them throughout the creative process.

D: How has this exhibit changed you?

L: I think the exhibition has heightened my awareness about the challenges women face especially low-income women in Juarez and Mexico. I am reminded of how fortunate I am and that the death and disappearance of every woman is a separate and unique story of tragedy and that their families and friends deserve justice.

Additionally, the power of art is truly overwhelming and when Dolores and I selected the pieces I recall how moved I was when I saw the proposed pieces. As I walk around the gallery and observe the visitors, I feel the same sensation vicariously and I am reassured when I notice how they react strongly to the pieces with feelings of sadness, shock, enragement and curiosity about the subject.

D: What does this femicide in Júarez tell you about the global escalation of violence against women?

L: Femicide and violence against women is sadly prevalent throughout the world. The negative portrayals of women, the lack of educational and entrepreneurial opportunities for women and the denial of the existing gender inequality have perpetuated the grievous acts of violence against women. I think that many societies and governments have failed to have honest discussions about the challenges that women face, and then also fail to take decisive, meaningful actions and create policies and adopt effective strategies to end gender inequality. Once women are respected as equals and allowed the opportunities to succeed, I believe that violence against women will diminish. Moreover, women will be empowered to fight back and challenge existing systems that work to talk away their rights and subject them to a lesser socio-economic and political status.

D: What can we do to help stop the femicide in Júarez?

L: Education about the issue is key. In order to end violence against women, education about gender inequality and how to prevent violence in families and communities is absolutely necessary. Children and youth must learn at a young age that women and men are equal and understand the damaging effects violence has in the lives of many. Furthermore, Mexico needs a modern, effective judicial system and law enforcement departments at every level of government, free of corruption and with adequate compensation, that can properly investigate and prosecute crimes.

Community Partners - Mil Gracias!

2009-10-26T19:31:00.010-05:00

Proyecto Latina wants to take a moment to thank some amazing community partners that have supported us along the way. Our newest community partner includes the Chicago Foundation for Women's Latina Leadership Council. All of these organizations are impacting our communities. We encourage you to go to their websites and support the wonderful work they do year round.
If you interested in becoming a community partner shoot us an email for details info@proyectolatina.org

Latina Teens At High Risk For Suicide

2009-10-21T17:19:00.005-05:00

A new report that has just come out from Washington University in New York city reports that Latina teens have a high risk of suicide. Some of the characteristics that lead these at risk teens from depression include: mother/daughter conflicts, immigrants and low-income families. According to the 2007 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention survey of high school students 14% of Latina students attempt suicide.

Here is a link to a CNN article about Latina teens and suicide.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/10/20/lia.latina.suicides/index.html

If you or a someone you know is depressed or talking about suicide get help immediately. Here are some online resources. Feel free to post other resources in the comment section. The more resource sharing we do the more educated we can become on this matter that is impacting the Latina community.

Center for Mental Health Services

http://www.mentalhealth.org

Suicide Prevention Resource Center

Depression.com

Mental Health Association of Greater Chicago

Community Counseling Services of Chicago

Note: The above photo is courtesy of Health Spa Blog

Proyecto Latina - Featuring Teatro Americano

2009-10-18T09:11:00.000-05:00

This month Proyecto Latina is thrilled to present the ladies of Teatro Americano. They will be performing sections of the 2010 production of Meet Juan(ito) Doe.

Proyecto Latina Reading series

Monday, October 19 @7PM-FREE

Radio Arte

1401 W. 18th Street

Chicago, IL

http://www.mapquest.com

Street Parking

18th Street Bus/ 60 Blue Island Bus/Pink line 18th St. stop

“I had the opportunity to meet Alejandra and Zulema about five-years ago when they were still in high school and I’m excited to say that these ladies are ones to watch. The ladies of this production are the next generation of Latinas in the arts”. –Diana Pando

Meet the ladies of Meet Juan(ito) Doe:

Alejandra Garcia

codename: Skinny Brown

Is a an actress, collaborator, and writer with Teatro Americano. She is a creator and actress in the ensemble's SALUD teatronovelas Fronteras del Amor and Los Aires de Mañana. She is looking forward to performing in Meet Juan(ito) Doe in 2010. This past summer, she traveled to the mountain town Tamaula in Guanajuato, Mexico supported by a MacArthur International Connections Grant to use theatre for community development. A graduate of Big Picture High School and frequent volunteer with Latinos Progresando, Alejandra is dedicated to the progress of Chicago's Latinos. She is eager to begin pursuing a career in the arts and dance in 2010.

Veronika Miranda

codename: Osa Picosa

Miranda is many things: actress, artist, photographer, writer, partygirl, etc. Graduating from Queen of Peace High School, she is a good bad girl from Chicago's Southside. A member of Teatro Americano's youth and young adult ensemble, she is an original collaborator and performer of Fronteras del Amor and looking forward to Meet Juan(ito) Doe. In Summer 2009, she traveled with Teatro Americano to rural Mexico supported by a MacArthur Chicago International Connections grant to use theater for community development and create new work. She currently works at a factory alongside her gente and enjoys very much her cigarette breaks. She is extremely grateful for coffee, family, friends, and Ricardo Gamboa (of course).

Zulema Ortiz

codename: Juice-ema

Migrating from Mexico, Zulema found new home in Chicago's Back of the Yards neighborhood. She is an actress, collaborator, and writer with Teatro Americano's youth and young adult ensemble. Dedicated to the progress of her community beyond the stage, Zulema has been active in organizing around issues of immigration. A former undocumented student, Zulema is intimate with the difficulties confronting immigrant youth and their pursuit of higher education and is currently active in DREAM Act advocacy. She is also a Teatro Americano educator at Rosario Castellanos Elementary. She is a graduate of Big Picture High School and 2009 winner of the Sor Juana Award. She can be seen in Teatro Americano's Fronteras del Amor and later next year in Meet Juan(ito) Doe.

Special THANK YOU to our community partner Radio Arte 90.5FM

Jenny Priego: Adelita Pata de Perro @ Pilsen Open Studios 2009

2009-10-15T21:52:00.009-05:00

Jennifer Priego will exhibit select pieces from her ongoing project Adelita Pata de Perro at this years Pilsen Open Studios, you can find her at Antena throughout the weekend.

WHAT: 18th St. Pilsen Open Studios 2009
WHEN: Sat. & Sun. Oct. 17-18, 2009. Noon - 8pm
WHERE: ANTENA, 1765 S. Laflin St.

We spoke to Jenny about a year ago, listen to what she had to say about Adelita Pata de Perro and her art process.

Jenny Priego (12:29)

Jenny Priego is visual and performance artist who draws inspiration from her existence as a feminine being and random beauty. She uses several forms of media to interpret her self exploration, such as technology, her body, voice, and formal fine art technique. Her latest and ongoing project is "Adelita Pata de Perro" a photographic journal of Adelita, a character that was inspired by the women who fought in the Mexican Revolution. Priego's Adelita is a hyper-ethnic woman wandering the world on an ever changing journey, and on her voyage of discovery she encounters symbols of power, femininity, sex, and cultural imagery. She finds herself in different situations and places that take her from Paris, to Rome and sugar cane mills in Mexico. Priego studied at Columbia College and currently works as a Stewardess.

Interview by Irasema Gonzalez

Meet the Latina Leadership Council Co-Chairs

2009-10-13T19:52:00.013-05:00

This month I had the opportunity to interview the co-chairs of the Chicago Foundation For Women's Latina Leadership Council. These ladies are on the move impacting our community. This Friday, October 16^th they will be having an evening of theatre and reception for their annual fall event to raise funds for Latina women and girls. Above is a photo of Silvia Rivera on the left, center Dolores Huerta and Lilliana De Santiago. Here is what they had to say about philanthropy, leadership and the work the Latina Leadership Council is doing:

Diana Pando: What is the Latina Leadership Council and how is it impacting Latina women and girls in Chicago?

Lilliana De Santiago: The LLC is a network of women committed to improving the lives of Latina women and girls in the Chicago area. Each woman who joins the council is a volunteer and comes from a variety of professional backgrounds. Our work within the LLC is to raise awareness of the issues impacting the Latina community and find the resources to support those organizations that are doing great work to address them. Our main goal is to raise funds by encouraging our peers, family and colleagues to participate actively in philanthropy.

Diana Pando: How did both you and Silvia get interested in philanthropy?

Lilliana De Santiago: I became interested in philanthropy through my desire to have a much more global and at substantial impact on the communities and causes that I am passionate about. I volunteer as often as I can, but that can often be limited by life. I find that by giving and educating others about causes and encouraging them to give is incredibly fulfilling and I am often able to do much more with those dollars than I can at times with my own hands.

Silvia Rivera: My parents were ones who never hesitated in giving, if it wasn't financially, it was by offering their home, food, or helping hand. I think that the example they set for me, is one that most Latinos live by. We are philanthropists by culture. As a young adult these cultural values were strengthened through my involvement with the National Museum of Mexican Art. Working for a Latino-led cultural institution inculcated in me the importance of supporting and strengthening the cornerstones of our community.

Diana Pando: How has being on the Latina Leadership Council impacted both you?

Lilliana De Santiago: Being on the LLC has helped me to connect with a strong network of passionate Latina women and also has given me confidence in my own personal strength. It is a truly a blessing to be among women who have so much life and passion. These women make things happen in their lives, but are humble and caring and will go out of their way to help their community. It has been a very positive experience.

Silvia Rivera: I have made it a life's mission to connect with those women that inspire me and to inspire others. There is an indescribable sense of pride that I feel whenever I am surrounded by the women of the Latina Leadership Council. These are women that have triumphed over a variety of life's challenges, and are a constant reminder that wise Latinas are all around us.

Diana Pando: How is the money you raise at your benefit be used? Who are past recipients?

Lilliana De Santiago: The LLC takes the funds that it raises and conducts yearly grant making efforts to support community organizations. Our past grantees have included:

Mujeres Latina en Accion,Pilsen Alliance,Centro Romero,Centro San Bonifacio,

Teatro Luna

Diana Pando: What have you learned about yourself and others from being on the council?

Lilliana De Santiago: There are many things that I have learned as a member of the council and my involvement with the foundation. My sense of commitment to a cause has grown as well as my sense of social reasonability. I truly feel that I am making a difference working with and committing myself to the LLC.

Silvia Rivera: Being on the council has strengthened my belief that Latina’s should be the driver's of this generations political, cultural, and social agendas. There is no doubt in my mind that Latina’s have the talent and the know-how needed to change our society for the better.

Diana Pando: Who are the other women on the council?

Lilliana De Santiago: The Latina Leadership Council includes: Carla Agostinelli,Michelle Garcia,Nora Garcia, Lynae Maciel and Dr. Yolanda Cardenas

Diana Pando: What trends are you seeing with Latinas in Philanthropy in the middle of this economic downturn?

Lilliana De Santiago: The trends that I see are working collaboratively with the arts and/or leadership events. The arts are an amazing venue where culture, opinions, passions, and current events are voiced in a multitude of ways that can relate to the masses. The LLC has partnered with the arts for their annual fundraiser for the last 3 years and they have proven to be highly successful. The goals with our events are to expose people the many elements of the Latino cultures, entertain them and educate them to the issues of Latina women. We have been fortunate enough to accomplish that and be recognized as an organization that does that on a yearly basis. We hope to continue that trend.

Silvia Rivera: Now, more than ever, we have to be united in supplementing the losses community organizations have experienced due to the economic downturn. Cut backs have negatively affected Latina agencies, many of which are being forced to decrease the services they provide. The good news is that our ability to partner with arts organizations, has proven to be a wonderful formula in reaching out to a diverse cadre of financial contributors. It is true that when times are tough, the comadres come through.

Diana Pando: What plans do you and Silvia, the new co-chair, have for the Latina Leadership Council in the coming months?

Lilliana De Santiago: Grow bigger, better, and wiser. We continue to look for amazing women who are willing to make a commitment to service, education, and philanthropy. We also will be working on a fundraising strategic plan to map out our philanthropic goals and events for the next year or two. We have an amazing group of women with a million great ideas and we nee to harness those ideas and see how we can make them realities.

Silvia Rivera: I hope that we increase the visibility of the Latina Leadership Council amongst organizations that might benefit from our fundraising efforts. Likewise, I hope that we can continue on our upward fundraising momentum.

About the benefit performance

Chicago Foundation for Women's Latina Leadership Council is proud to announce a special one-night benefit performance of The House on Mango Street at the Steppenwolf Theatre. This is generously cosponsored by Steppenwolf Theatre. Profits from the event will go toward the Council's Maria Mangual Unidas Fund, which awards grants to nonprofit programs in the Chicago area working with the Latina community. Join us for a pre-show reception with wine and hors d'oeuvres, where you can meet council members and learn how you can get involved.

About The House on Mango Street

Based on the novel by celebrated Chicago writer Sandra Cisneros and adapted by Tanya Saracho, The House on Mango Street is the touching and humorous story of a young girl growing up in one of Chicago's culturally diverse neighborhoods. Esperanza Cordero dreams of a new life far away from her tiny home on rundown Mango Street in this classic coming-of-age story about those defining experiences that shape our beliefs and help us discover who we are.

Tickets: $40. Buy through Chicago Foundation for Women's website: https://www.cfw.org/SSLPage.aspx?pid=1113

Got questions about this event? Call Marisol Ybarra: 312-577-2801

mybarra@cfw.org

Rastros y Crónicas

2009-10-07T18:22:00.005-05:00

Since 1993, more then 500 women have been killed in Ciudad Juárez in the northern Mexican state of Chihuahua. For some time now, Mexican and Mexican American artists have been sensitive to the subject of Women of Juarez and have worked on diverse projects to share their perspective on this disturbing situation. The thought provoking pieces throughout the exhibition serve as a chronicle of the struggles of Mexican women and the grievous deaths in Ciudad Juárez. By generating awareness, the artwork supports the cause of the victims’ families who search for justice and truth. The artists of Rastros y Crónicas compel the viewer to comprehend and sympathize with what the victims endured and what the living continue to face.

In the next few weeks Proyecto Latina will be featuring interviews with some of the artists and women organizing this event in the meantime check out the exhibit.

Opening Reception October 16, 2009, 6-8 pm
Exhibition runs through February 14, 2010

National Museum of Mexican Art

1852 W 19th St

Chicago, IL 60608-2706

(312) 738-1503

Artists include: Adriana Yadira Gallego,Ana Teresa Fernández,Amalia Benavides,Ambra Polidori,Azul Luna,Carla Rippey,Cecilia Alvarez,Celia Alvarez Muñoz,Consuelo Jiménez Underwood,Ester Hernández,Esperanza Gama,Favianna Rodríguez,Judithe Hernández,Karen Musgrave,Linda Vallejo,Mónica Huitrón Flores,Patricia Acosta,Pilar Acevedo, Rocío Caballero,Rosario Guajardo,Sandra Vista,Stephanie Manriquez,Susan Plum,Verónica Cardoso Nagel,Victoria Delgadillo

The above image is courtesy of the Artist
Rocio Caballero
Broken Dreams/ Los sueños rotos, 2009
mixed media on canvas
39 1/2" X 47 1/4th

Esther Cepeda: 600 is the sweet spot

2009-10-05T17:32:00.002-05:00

Esther Cepeda encourages the Latina journalism student to develop her multi-media skills and to be bold. Esther leads by example; she writes and self-syndicates her column at 600words. In 2006 she became the first Latino metro columnist when she joined the Chicago Sun-Times, about the opportunity she says, "Its great to have a seat at the table."

Listen to more from our interview with Esther below:

Esther Cepeda 1 of 2 (7:06)

Esther Cepeda 2 of 2 (7:06)

Interview by Diana Pando

Legendary Song Bird Mercedes Sosa Passes at 74

2009-10-04T14:49:00.003-05:00

Proyecto Latina is taking a moment to send our condolences and remember Mercedes Sosa, a woman with a powerful voice and message, who passed today in a hospital in Argentina. Ms. Sosa had a singing career that spanned five decades and winner of several Latin Grammy Awards. She is considered the voice of consciousness in Latin America blending traditional folk rhythms with politically charged lyrics about the poor and disenfranchised. Her music career came to a stand off in the 1970’s when the right-wing nationalists of Argentina noticed and began harassing her by banning her music from Argentine radio and television.

Ms. Sosa used her artistic talent to move the people at her sold out concerts by transforming them into rallies against government brutality. With increasing threats from the government and prohibited from performing and making a living she was forced to exiled herself to Europe. Upon her return to Argentina the last remnants of the dictatorship were crumbling and her popularity soared as thousands attended her concerts. After more than five decades this woman’s voice echoes on even louder.

La Llorona: The Weeping Woman

2009-10-02T09:30:00.002-05:00

When La Llorona isn't wailing and looking for her chamacos in the river she sometimes appears on TV like the Got Milk commercial that ran a few years ago. This pre-columbian legend has traveled across time through oral tradition of storytelling. The legend has it that she drowned her children in the river and spends countless nights wailing trying desperately to find them. I've often wondered if she had postpartum depression.

The story also has it that at some point she even appeared in the city of Tenochtitlan at night as a woman dressed in white, accompanied by deadly omens which foretold the conquest of Mexico. One night, her voice was heard, weeping loudly: Oh, my poor children, their destruction has arrived, for we must soon depart! Other times the voice would cry in desperation: My children, where shall I take you? Where could I hide you? This was interpreted as an omen for the fall of the Aztec Empire.

No need to start crying over history's spilled milk or looking for La Llorona by the Chicago River. She will actually be at the Chicago Cultural Center in spirit anyway.

La Llorona: The Weeping Woman
FOCO / Intersections
October 7, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St.
Along with the Virgin of Guadalupe and La Malinche, La Llorona forms part of the female triad rooted in Mexican culture. La Llorona is a thriving oral legacy that can be traced to a folk legend that originated during the Spanish Conquest of Mexico. The weeping woman who searches for her lost children is a phantom who is heard but never seen. The phenomenon is reflected in song, literature, film and popular culture, and La Llorona's story continues to be re-envisioned and revised by contemporary artistic interpretations.

And about that commercial we told you about:

Ana Castillo: Fueling a literary tradition

2009-10-01T09:59:00.017-05:00

Chicana writer Ana Castillo wants to fuel the tradition of reading and writing in the Latino community, through the memoir writing workshops she teaches. Ana says she hopes that she can help establish posterity of culture and most importantly the family stories of the participants. Literature, Ana reminds us, comes from all walks of life--writing is not just for the privileged. Our Proyecto Latina contributor, Yolanda Cardenas also asks about spirituality's place in writing, listen to their complete conversation below.

Ana Castillo: Spirituality's place in writing? (4:17)

Ana Castillo: Can you teach someone to write? (5:48)

Ana Castillo's memoir writing workshops are cross-cultural and generational and open to everyone over 18 years-old. Details available here.

Interview by Yolanda Cardenas

Migdalia Cruz: Writing is life

2009-09-29T12:34:00.007-05:00

One of the most exciting things for me this fall is the impressive line-up of talented Latinas--from playwrights to actors--that Chicago theaters are boasting. I'm sure you've heard about Mango Street hitting the stage, the Brown Girl Chronicles just finished a second run, our September feature Marilyn Camacho is debuting as a director, and finally, Migdalia Cruz, whose play El Grito del Bronx ran this summer at the Goodman will be back in town teaching a master playwriting class over at Chicago Dramatist on October 24th. Its poised to be a one-of-a-kind experience, Migdalia is combining movement and yoga along with writing exercises into her workshop.

In case you've wondered about penning your own play, I thought this a most appropriate time to reach into my vault and share an interview that I did with Migdalia earlier this summer.

Diana: I read somewhere that you were originally a math major. How did you go from math major to playwright?

Migdalia:I was also a History minor, and took a class about Beckett. I thought it was about the English historical figure "Thomas A Becket, but instead it was about Samuel Beckett. When I saw how beautifully and poetically Beckett rendered the most horrible of human conditions, I thought becoming a playwright could be an incredible gift. So I dropped the Calculus. When I get stuck on my plays, I sometimes add big numbers. I figure anything on paper is good. It also relaxes me. Strange, huh? Math stresses a lot of people, but not me. But once I faced the fact that writing was what would truly make me happy, I remembered that I had written my first play when I was six years old—a puppet play about Civil Rights. So I suppose I was really just acknowledging what I always knew in my heart. Math was fun, but writing was life.

Diana: What advice do you give to emerging women playwrights?

Migdalia: Respect your history, listen to your ancestors, tell the truth, and write your own story—or someone else will write it and get it all wrong.

Diana: Can you give us a sneak peek at some of the other plays you might be working on?

Migdalia: Hmmm...I'm not sure how much I should tell you— I have been working for a while on an adaptation of Petronius' Satyricon, which will include both reggaeton & the music of Nino Rota. And I have recently started thinking about a play about real Puerto Rican Pirates to whom I am related. Enough said.

'Finding a Method to Your Own Madness.' For more details contact: Megan from Chicago Dramatist at msmith@chicagodramatists.org, or call at 312-206-8959.

Interview by Diana Pando

Visual Interpretations of the Virgen of Guadalupe

2009-09-24T18:37:00.008-05:00

Ever since she appeared to Juan Diego back in the 1531 folks can’t get enough of her. You see Lupe on t-shirts, key chains, calling cards, SUV’s and all kinds of other stuff. I’ve never gone to the Basilica in Mexico City to check out La Virgen de Guadalupe but maybe I will get a chance in December when I go visit family. A friend tells me they have a pedestrian conveyor belt that zips you right past her shrine and into the gift store.

Columbia College will be hosting the following event:

Latino Culture & Conversation: Visual Interpretations of the Virgin of Guadalupe

Tuesday, September 29, 12:30 p.m.

618 S. Michigan Avenue, 4th Floor Conference Room

The Virgin of Guadalupe has long been a cultural and religious icon throughout Latino America. Join Columbia College Chicago students, faculty, and staff as we discuss how her image has impacted Latino art and culture, including her influence in community murals, theater, and more.

Proyecto Latina: Ruby Yo! @ 35th St. Cafe

2009-09-16T13:25:00.000-05:00

Join Proyecto Latina on Monday, September 21st @ 7 p.m. as we make our way to McKinley Park to the 35th Street Cafe to host our featured presenter, Marilyn Camacho a.k.a Ruby Yo!, hear your work on the open mic, and see what emerges from the chisme box!

Marilyn Camacho is hip-hop femcee, singer, and songwriter Ruby Yo! Her music is a mix of hip-hop, R&B, and Latin soul that rings familiar to her Puerto Rican roots. As Ruby Yo!, Camacho strives to fill the current void in hip-hop music, and ensure that the woman's voice is truly heard and represented in a respectable fashion that's true to the art form and its original purpose. You can catch Ruby Yo! performing at several open mics and events around the city. Check out Ruby Yo's! online: myspace and facebook. *

35th Street Café
1735 W. 35th Street Chicago, IL 60609

The Proyecto Latina venue sponsor for September is the 35th St. Cafe. Get there early for a hearty dinner, then grab coffee and desert and join us in the back room for the September edition of Proyecto Latina. Check 'em out on facebook.

*Marilyn Camacho's second artistic identity is as an actress, director, writer, co-founder and co-artistic director of UrbanTheater Company (UTC) in Chicago. UTC is a multi-cultural theater company rooted in the Latino community that is committed to the creation and exploration of urban-inspired works that convey, illuminate and empathize with the human experience. In UTC's 5 year history, she has either acted in or produced a number of UTC's shows, such as Short Eyes, The Sun Always Shines for the Cool, Runaways, and most recently Broken Thread. She is ecstatic about her current official directorial debut, directing UrbanTheater's/People's Theater co-production of Cuba and His Teddy Bear, which will run at the Batey Urbano in Humboldt Park's Paseo Boricua this upcoming fall.

Look for Camille & Esther @ Renegade this weekend

2009-09-09T15:51:00.030-05:00

If you are making it out to the Renegade Craft Fair this weekend. Take note and make sure to swing by and check out the work that a couple of crafting Latinas from the Chicago area will be presenting.

"If you love what you do, why not live off of it?" Esther Ramirez, the artist behind Essimar Papel also wants her stationery products to be a household name one day. She's well on her way there, her line of hand made limited run cards can be found in 59 boutiques throughout the U.S. and Europe. Esther, 28, began her love affair with paper when she was a child and didn't get the fanciest notebooks during back-to-school shopping, she took it upon herself to begin collaging the covers with magazine and newspapers cut-outs. Paper is Esther's main arsenal, and her methods include hand pulled screen printing, hand dye cutting, hand mache, and collage . You can find her booth this weekend at the Renegade Craft fair where she will have an offering of items that include paper maché pins, handmade limited/in series cards, and papel picado.

Camille Canales, owner of La Otra Camilla, is making her Craft fair debut at Renegade this weekend. Camille, 25, moved to Chicago from Texas over five years ago and is a graduate from the School of the Art Institute. A painter and textile artist, she currently teaches screen-printing and embroidery at Lillstreet Art Center. “I love making things with my hands,” she explains and often takes on the challenge of recreating her paintings into a skilled embroidery piece. Although, her most recent collection of q-tip confetti prints—inspired by a dream—is a fun departure from labor intensive embroidery and embellishments she enjoys. Her booth this weekend will feature new paintings and drawings, along with craft items with select images from the art environments she creates, they include pillows, totes, scarves, and prints, as well as some kid wear and pet items.

Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago
September 12 and 13
11a.m. – 7p.m.
on Division St. between Damen Ave. and Paulina St.
Free

Feeling inspired? Renegade Craft Fair is currently taking applications for their holiday sale. Get details here.

Thelma Uranga: knitting graffiti in Pilsen

2009-08-31T14:15:00.035-05:00

"It should be something cultural, it should define us but it should be open to anyone who wants to join," The 27 year-old Thelma Uranga says about her knitting circle El Stitch y Bitch. About a year and a half ago Thelma's creative urge led her to pick up knitting needles and start purling, she went on to make hats and scarfs and ultimately create the community of knitters that lacked in her part of town. They meet in Pilsen and Little Village cafes and occasionally venture out with knitted swatches to make statements on Pilsen streets that puts a new spin on graffiti.

Thelma tells us how it all started (4:01)

Knitting statements (6:01)

Hook up with El Stitch y Bitch (1:37)

Connect with El Stitch y Bitch here, here and on:
Wed., Sept. 2nd from 7 to 9 p.m. @ Catedral Cafe, 2500 S. Christiana, Chicago.

interview by Ericka Sanchez

House On Mango Street Takes To The Stage

2009-08-28T18:35:00.015-05:00

They will not know I have gone away to come back. For the ones I left behind. For the ones that cannot out.
– Esperanza Cordero, The House On Mango Street

Front to back: Sandra Delgado, Belinda Cervantes and Christina Nieves
photo by Saverio Truglia

The world premiere for the musical adaptation of The House on Mango Street opens this fall. The cast of the new play features: Belinda Cervantes, Gina Cornejo, Sandra Delgado as Esperanza, Liza Fernandez, Ricardo Gutierrez, Christina Nieves, Tony Sancho and Mari Stratton. Earlier this year Proyecto Latina had the opportunity to talk to some of the ladies that are now involved with this production.

Check out our interview archive to learn more about them:

The House On Mango Street by Chicago writer Sandra Cisneros has been adapted by playwright Tanya Saracho, who took on the challenge of bringing Esperanza and the people on Mango Street to the stage. Saracho also recently received two Jeff Nominations for her play Our Lady of the Underpass.

The House on Mango Street is a coming of age story of Esperanza, a Mexican-American girl, growing up in Chicago. The book gives voice to Esperanza and her working class family, as well as, the people that live on Mango Street. The book is not only a Chicago story but an American story.

Proyecto Latina congratulates all of these ladies for their artistic achievements and contributions to the arts in Chicago.

This World Premiere production opens October 13 – November 1. In the Steppenwolf Upstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., in Chicago. For information on reservation and performance times visit www.steppenwolf.org or call (312) 335-1650.

Listening To Latinas

2009-08-28T17:30:00.003-05:00

In a new report "Listening to Latinas: Barriers to High School Graduation" was released August 27 by MALDEF and National Women’s Law Center highlighting the greater challenges Latina students face than their counterparts. The report is meant to offer strategies to get young Latinas to graduate High School.

The report took a close look at the drop-out crisis in the Latino community and found the following:

The latest data show that 41% of Latina students do not graduate on time with a standard high school diploma.

The study reports that while 98% of high school seniors want to graduate from high school, and 80% aspire to higher education, Latina students continue to face numerous challenges in reaching these goals.

The recommendations of the report include:

Calling on schools, policymakers, and government agencies to: invest in the future of Latino children through high-quality early learning program

Ensure that all students are prepared for post-secondary educational opportunities, ensure safe school environments that are culturally inclusive and free from discrimination

Improve efforts to prevent teen pregnancy and provide support for pregnant and parenting students, and require better data collection and promote school accountability.

Together we can improve the quality of life for Latinas by reaching out to our community and encouraging them to stay in school. Irasema Gonzalez and I are proud to say that we’ve had the opportunity to mentor some amazing young Latinas who are the next wave of Latina leaders in the city and they include Mayra Macias and Zulema Ortiz.

The report is available here.

For more information on this report, visit MALDEF.org.

The MáS Memoir Writing Workshop

2009-08-23T18:45:00.005-05:00

Well, the lazy days of summer are almost over and with September around the corner it's time to flex those writing muscles. Next month Ana Castillo returns to the Windy City to offer her Más Writing Workshop. Irasema Gonzalez, Coya Paz, Yolanda Cardenas and I had an opportunity to take her last writing workshop. It was thought provoking and very useful for anyone wanting to write memoir.

"We’ll write from our hearts and our minds. And then, we’ll learn to get rid of all the sentimentality and leave on the page what is important for the reader to know about your memoir". -Ana Castillo

This workshop welcomes back previous participants. It will include first time participants. Together, you’ll take a look at writing-in-progress, learn workshop method and discuss new writing tips and techniques.

Sunday, Sept. 20 - 10AM to 2PM - Location TBA.

In memoir, the reader must be persuaded that the narrator is writing honestly, whether or not he/she is, is secondary. It doesn’t matter as much ‘what happened’ as what you make of what you remember may have happened.The workshop will consist of exercises, which help us to know how to get started when desiring to work on a memoir essay.

Persons interested must submit 1 pg writing sample to apply.18 yrs. and up.

All Inquiries and to Apply:

Email: anacastilloworkshops@gmail.com Cost: $175 per person Limit only 15 per workshop * Exact locations and times will be given once applicant has been accepted.

August - Proyecto Latina

2009-08-16T14:55:00.001-05:00

August brings sunshine, barbecues and Proyecto Latina! This month we are featuring Proyecto emerging writer and Chicago Public School teacher Ericka Sanchez. A few years back, I met Ericka at one of our Proyecto Latina readings and thought what a fabulous storyteller.

When Ericka isn't in the trenches of the the public school system she is our Proyecto Latina correspondent doing interviews with Latinas making an impact in our community. You can also thank Ericka for the chisme box!

As an emerging writer Ericka will be sharing some hilarious and reflective new work that hopefully will inspire you to pick up the pen or keyboard and write. –Diana Pando

This month’s August Proyecto Latina will take place at Monday, August 17 @ 7PM:

Cedahlia's 1010 -12 S Western
Chicago, IL 60608 (312) 733-0885
Street Parking Available
http://www.transitchicago.com
http://www.mapquest.com

Our friend Jesse Iniquez has generously donated his space.

Ericka Sanchez is a transplant from Mexico, raised in one of the cultural meccas for Mexicanos, Little Village. Her current incarnation as a school teacher by day allows her to run rampant for her love of photography, writing and crafting, music and movie obsessions as well as supporting fellow Latinas and their creative imaginings! Erick is currently a Proyecto Latina Correspondent.

Proyecto Latina Congratulates New Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor!

2009-08-07T13:38:00.010-05:00

A picture really is worth a thousand words. Photo courtesy of our friends at Emily's List.

Yesterday, was a proud moment as the senate confirmed Sonia Sotomayor 68-31 to become the third woman and first Latina to serve as a Supreme Court Justice. Proyecto Latina congratulates Sotomayor for her accomplishment and dedication to law. On our Proyecto Latina wish list is an interview with Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor:)

Of Summer Time and South Side Literary Landscaper Irasema Gonzalez

2009-07-15T22:29:00.000-05:00

Little Village Literary Landscaper Irasema Gonzalez Is Featured In July Proyecto Latina Reading Series

Join Us It's FREE on July 20th @7pm in Little Village

In a neighborhood on the South Side of the city that often gets over looked and arts funding is next to nonexistent Proyecto Latina will host its first reading series in Little Village to reach out to Latinas of all ages and encourage them to come out and share their own writing about their lives and neighborhood.

The feature includes local writer and Little Village resident, Irasema Gonzalez, on Monday, July 20th at 7pm at the Chicago Public Library Toman Branch, FREE and open to the public.

She will be sharing her reflections on growing up in the Little Village and what it means to be a woman in that part of the city. “I am really hoping that Little Village writers (I know they’re out there and I want to meet them) come out to join me in sharing their work through our open mic," says writer Irasema Gonzalez.

Irasema Gonzalez is a writer and merchant. She is the owner of Tianguis.biz the current incarnation of her former book and teashop in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood"which is also the exclusive distributor for Momotombo Press. She is passionate about books that tell the stories of the Latino community. Also, a founding member of the Proyecto Latina reading series and the co-producer for the Proyecto Latina Radio Show at Radio Arte. Her poems appeared in the Ariel XXVIII (Triton College, 2009), Afternoon Wine: Vicios, Sueños y Confesiones (Maravilla Writing Collective’s chapbook, 2006), and in Between the Heart and the Land: An Anthology of Midwestern Latina Poets by March Abrazo Press, 2000. She has presented featured readings at venues throughout the city including: Palabra Pura, the Sor Juana festival and Poetry Fest at the Chicago Public Library. She is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago, where she earned a B.A. in journalism and creative writing. She resides in Little Village with her family and is giddy about hosting and featuring at Proyecto Latina in La Villita this July.

The reading will be Monday, July 20 at 7pm (FREE) at the Chicago Public Library Toman Branch 2708 S. Pulaski Road Chicago, IL 60623 - (312) 498-4067 / Street Parking Available/60 Blue Island Bus / 31st S. Pulaski Bus

Proyecto Latina provides a platform to showcase work by Latina writers, poets and performers. In its fourth year, the reading series takes place the third Monday of every month, it includes a feature, an open mic and a chisme box! Proyecto Latina proudly features emerging and established artists like: Lisa Alvarado (Poet), Achy Obejas (Writer),Coya Paz (Poet/Performance Artist) Yolanda Cardenas (Poet), Vida Bella Ensemble (Performance) Stephanie Elizondo Griest(Author), Tanya Saracho (Playwright) Liz Ann Acosta (Writer) and many more!

Proyecto Latina Team

2009-07-15T13:00:00.005-05:00

Meet the team of mujeres that make Proyecto Latina happen weekly and monthly, year-round.

Irasema Gonzalez is a writer and merchant. She is the owner of Tianguis.biz, the current incarnation of her former book and tea shop in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood. She is passionate about books that tell the stories of the Latino community, and is honored to be the exclusive distributor for Momotombo Press. She is a founding member of the Proyecto Latina reading series and most recently has become the co-producer for the Proyecto Latina Radio Show at Radio Arte. Her poems appeared in her writing group's chapbook, Afternoon Wine: Vicios, Sueños y Confesiones and in Between the Heart and the Land: An Anthology of Midwestern Latina Poets by March Abrazo Press. She is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago where she earned a B.A. in journalism and creative writing. She resides in Little Village with her husband and two cats.

Diana Pando is a multi-genre writer from Chicago. Diana likes to flex her writing and advocacy skills to support Latinos in the arts and nonprofits impacting Latina women and girls in underserved communities. She is a founder of the Proyecto Latina Reading Series. "When I first got the idea I knew it would be a collaborative effort with other dynamic women like Coya and Irasema". Together we bring Latinas in the arts together once a month to tell their stories and support their creative efforts by providing a platform where they can share and express their creativity while building community. She is the Co-Producer of Proyecto Latina Radio Show on 90.5 F.M. WRTE highlighting Latinas making an impact in their communities. Diana’s kryptonite includes: Writing Cupcakes, military history, coffee, and cumbias.

Coya Paz is a poet, director, and lip gloss connoisseur who was raised in Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil before moving permanently to the United States in 1987. She is a cofounder of Proyecto Latina and Teatro Luna, and teaches in The Theater School at DePaul University. She is finishing a PhD in Performance Studies at Northwestern University, and believes in the power of performance and poetry to build community towards social change. For a full manifeto, visit her on the web at www.coyapaz.com

Yolanda Cardenas lives in a city known as a mecca of arctic cold, bizarre weather and medicine, a modern day Dr. Zhivago emerges. Currently, Dr. Cardenas is serving as the music director of Proyecto Latina Radio on 90.5FM WRTE Radio Arte but her radio debut was on NPR's "848" which aired a poem in a segment about the Proyecto Latina Open Mic series. In 2007, Yolanda participated in "Niki Nights: Literature and Music in the Garden" at the Garfield Park Conservatory as well as in the National Museum of Mexican Art's "Sor Juana Festival." In 2006 she was a semi-finalist in the 13th Annual Gwendolyn Brooks Open Mic Award and her work appeared in "Afternoon Wine: Vicios, Sueños y Confesiones" a compilation of poems in a chapbook featuring her writing group. In 2004, Yolanda Cardenas completed her family medicine training, while fine tuning the art of medicine, this Chicago native also honed her writing. Although there's no Russian revolution in her future, she's primed for social change and a medical revolution.

Ericka Sanchez is a transplant from Mexico, raised in one of the cultural meccas for Mexicanos, Little Village. Her current incarnation as a school teacher by day allows her to run rampant for her love of photography, writing and crafting, music and movie obsessions as well as supporting fellow Latinas and their creative imaginings! Erick is currently a Proyecto Latina Correspondent.

El Grito del Bronx

2009-07-07T23:41:00.010-05:00

Local Actor Sandra Delgado stars in the new play El Grito del Bronx by Migdalia Cruz. In this interview she talks to Diana Pando about her new role as Lulu in the play and how the role has impacted her as an actor along with a few tips for emerging Latina actors. We want to hear from you if you like this interview let us know!

Part I: Sandra Delgado on El Grito del Bronx, 5:49

Part II: Sandra Delgado on El Grito del Bronx, 6:39

Part III: Sandra Delgado on El Grito del Bronx, 5:08

interview by Diana Pando

Over the Rainbow with Edith Bucio & Tania Unzueta

2009-06-15T10:27:00.019-05:00

Listen to two Chicago queer Latinas honor their history and identities by paving the path to create more visibility for the triumphs and struggles of their communities.

Tania Unzueta shares history and thoughts on the move of the Chicago Dyke March to Pilsen and what it meant personally that the march was arriving to the community she lives and works in.

Tania Unzueta, 14:37

Edith Bucio is the June 2009 feature for Proyecto Latina. She speaks to us about being a queer Latina writer in Chicago and her work as a volunteer with the Chicago Dyke March.

Tania Unzueta, 14:37

Interview by Irasema Gonzalez.

June Pride @ Proyecto Latina: Featuring Edith Bucio

2009-05-27T15:41:00.017-05:00

What do riots, marches, and good old fashioned chisme have in common? This month's Proyecto Latina! Join us as we partner with the Chicago Dyke March to celebrate Pride Month, the 40th Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, and a Latina community with room for all! Our June feature is the writer and dancer Edith Bucio, and our open mic puts a special emphasis on fighting back when you're being kept down (a la Stonewall Riots*).

Join us Monday, June 15th @ 7 p.m.
Held @ Radio Arte, 1401 W. 18th St.

Edith Bucio received her B.A. degree in Fiction from Columbia College. Her poetry and prose depict a world that is very similar to what she herself has lived as an indigenous identified brown-queer-woman. She is currently NOT working on her first novel, to which you should pull both her ears for. But she is doing good work as a core member of Chicago Dyke March Collective, and the Mexcia dance group, Nahualli.

Proyecto Latina Provides a platform to showcase work by Latina writers, poets and performers. In it's fourth year, the reading series takes place the third Monday of every month, it includes a feature, an open mic and a a chisme box!

Chicago Dyke March Collective is a grassroots mobilization and celebration of dyke, queer, and transgender resilience. It is an anti-racist, anti-violent, volunteer-led, grassroots effort with a goal to bridge together communities across race, class, age, size, sex, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, culture, immigrant status, spirituality, and ability.

*Que es stonewall? The Stonewall riots were a series of spontaneous, violent demonstrations against consistent police repression and a raid that took place in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969 at the Stonewall Inn, in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of New York City. They are frequently cited as the first instance in American history when gays and lesbians fought back against a government-sponsored system that persecuted homosexuals, and they have become the defining event that marked the start of the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world. It is also important to note the transgender community fought fiercely and Silvia Rivera, a Puerto Rican transgender woman is said to have thrown the first stone at the police.

Zulema Ortiz: a new brand of All American patriotism

2009-05-27T13:36:00.010-05:00

Proyecto Latina interviews Zulema Ortiz, the 2009 Young Visionary award recipient for the 2009 Sor Juana Achievement award. A 20 year-old college-student, Zulema patriotically refers to the only country she ever remembers living in as,“the land of opportunity, where anything is possible.” That's the attitude that Zulema adopted although she lacked the nine essential digits of a social security number, and found creative ways to finance college and pursue a higher education. She's paving the way towards her dreams and with confidence declares that, "the Dream Act will be passed."

Part I: Zulema Ortiz, 5:57

Part II: Zulema Ortiz, 5:26

Part III: Zulema Ortiz, 7:41

Links and resources:
Latinos Progresando
Big Picture High School, Back of the Yards, Chicago
Close Up
The Road Less Traveled
The Dream Act

Interview by Irasema Gonzalez

Josefina Lopez: Renaissance Latina says, create your opportunities and own your stories

2009-05-18T14:31:00.019-05:00

"Never wait for anyone to give you an opportunity, make it happen for yourself ..."
--Josefina Lopez

During a recent visit to the windy city Josefina Lopez, author of Real Women Have Curves, and most recently the novel Hungry woman in Paris sits down to talk to Proyecto Latina co-producer Diana Pando.

Josefina Lopez talks to us about the decision to move to Paris, her latest novel and other upcoming projects. Josefina also advises Latinas on creating their own opportunities, handling rejection and ownership of our own stories.

Part I: Josefina Lopez, 6:06

Part II: Josefina Lopez, 6:08

Part III: Josefina Lopez, 5:18

More information on Josefina and her projects at josefinalopez.com

Interview by Diana Pando

Alla-licious, Latino indie/rock never sounded so good

2009-05-14T11:48:00.017-05:00

Proyecto Latina is a big fan of the Chicago based group Alla. And if you are familiar with their music and you ever tune into our Sunday afternoon show you will know that our show intro features a snippet of one of Alla's songs from their first CD Es Tiempo.

Proyecto Latina's music director, Yolanda Cardenas sat down with Alla earlier this month to talk about their music and uncovered some interesting stuff about the intensity and drive that moves them. The Mexican-American band and it’s unconventional and sophisticated sound is formed by: Lupe Martinez (vocalist/guitarist) and the Ledezma brothers, Jorge (producer/guitarist) and Angel (drums). Allá's debut album” Es Tiempo “ was produced by Jorge Ledezma over a four-year period, using no less than 8 studios. Most recently they released Digs, a new mini-album where the band pays tribute to a diverse list of artist and songs that helped bring their unique musical vision into focus.

Catch Alla with us this Saturday, May 16th, they will be performing an acoustic set at the National Museum of Mexican Art as part of the Sor Juana festival and the Letras, Palabras y Cantos event. Details below.

Part I: Alla, 5:56

Part II: Alla, 16:04

Part III: Alla, 12:39

Interview by Yolanda Cardenas

Discover Alla's sound here.

Dolores Huerta: Be full of yourself and take the credit for your work

2009-05-13T15:51:00.006-05:00

This past March Dolores Huerta received the 2009 Ruth Bader Ginsburg Award for a Pioneer in Women’s Rights at the Chicago Foundation for Women Impact Awards. Dolores Huerta's life story revolves around activism, compassion and leadership. She is a leading advocate for the human rights of workers, immigrants and women. Proyecto Latina Co-producer, Diana Pando had the opportunity to speak to Dolores and she emerged from her interview with one very important message for young Latinas everwhere. Its regarding the si se puede slogan Dolores coined and a picture she didn't take: make sure you take credit for your accomplishments or someone else will do it .

Part I: Dolores Huerta, 5:56

Part II: Dolores Huerta, 9:54

Interview by Diana Pando

Its still poetry month @ Proyecto Latina w/ Johanny Vázquez Paz

2009-05-05T11:48:00.006-05:00

We're taking poetic celebrations beyond poetry month and well into May when Proyecto Latina welcomes Chicago poet Johanny Vázquez Paz as our next feature. Spring is in the air and we are excited to have Johanny sharing her humor, wit, and work with us. Join us Monday, May 18th @ 7 p.m. Held at Radio Arte, 1401 W. 18th St. Free. As always open mic and chisme box will be ready for contributors.

Johanny Vázquez Paz was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She holds a Master of Arts in Hispanic Studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Indiana State University. Her book Poemas callejeros / Streetwise Poems was recently published by Mayapple Press (Michigan, 2007). She co-edited the anthology Between the Heart and the Land / Entre el corazón y la tierra: Latina Poets in the Midwest (MARCH/Abrazo Press, 2001) and was included in the compilation Poetas sin tregua (Spain, 2006) of Puerto Rican poets from the 80's generation. Some of her poems appeared in the anthology Más allá de las fronteras (Ediciones Nuevo Espacio, New Jersey, 2004), and she was published in the collection Carpetas de Luz after winning the Voces Selectas 2000 poetry contest of Luz Bilingual Publishing. Johanny has been published in the literary magazines VOCES Journal (Univ. of California), El Centro Journal of the Center for Puerto Rican Studies (Hunter College, N.Y.), Beyond Borders (De Paul Univ.) and Yagrumal (Puerto Rico), among others. She has also participated in many poetry readings at universities in the Midwest, and is currently the emcee of the Guild Complex Bilingual Series’ Palabra Pura. She currently teaches Spanish at Harold Washington College in Chicago, IL The author invites everyone to her blog Tinta Derramada.

Radio: May Schedule & April Recap

2009-05-05T11:00:00.001-05:00

Tune in on Sundays at 6 p.m. to the Proyecto Latina hour at Radio Arte, 90.5 FM. You can also listen online here, and all our interviews are archived at proyectolatina.org--look for the interview archive link on the right hand column of this page.

Our May schedule includes interviews with:

Dolores Huerta
Alla, Chicago's very own Chicano trio that includes Lupe Martinez on vocals and guitar.
Zulema Ortiz, Young Visionary for Sor Juana
Johanny Vazquez Paz, Chicago poet and Proyecto Latina feature for May.
Josefina Lopez, author of Hungry Woman in Paris and Real Women Have Curves.
Footage from the Celebrating Latina Creativity in Chicago panel at DePaul, that includes presentations by: Bibiana Suarez, Irasema Gonzalez, Tanya Saracho, and Coya Paz.

April 2009 was a busy and exciting month for us, in case you missed any of it:

Luna Blues Machine: Two sisters, one cd & lots of livin' & learnin'

2009-04-28T13:01:00.016-05:00

The multi-talented Cervantes sisters have roots in Back of the Yards and Chicago's Southside but their music casts a much wider net and draws inspiration from a very diverse mix of music genres.

The Luna Blues Machine fuses acoustic hip-hop with soul, folk, latin and any other genre that moves them. Fronted by sisters Belinda and Maritza Cervantes (mandolin and guitar), LBM stands out as one of the most experimental acoustic music acts working in Chicago today. With the accompaniment of bass and drums, their feel-good rhythms, engaging stories, tight harmonies and charismatic hooks will make you want to getcha self a little luna love.

Part I: Luna Blues Machine, 8:21

Part II: Luna Blues Machine, 8:17

Part III: Luna Blues Machine, 5:14

Catch The Luna Blues Machine, this Thursday, April 30th @ 10pm @ Silvie's Lounge, 1902 W. Irving Park Road. $5 cover. Say you're there to see LBM. You can learn more about them and their new cd at www.thelunabluesmachine.com

Interview by Yolanda Cardenas

Michelle Otero: An open heart and writing to heal

2009-04-27T13:56:00.011-05:00

Proyecto Latina had the pleasure of featuring Michelle Otero, author of Malinche's Daughter this past February. Before Michelle boarded a plane back home to the Southwest, I had the opportunity to sit down and talk to her about life as an author and her approach to her craft.

Part I: Writing journey and the universal story, 9:37

Part II: Writing a book that heals and opening our heart when creating, 9:59

WEB BONUS: Morning pages, 3:00

Interview by Irasema Gonzalez

Proyecto Latina @ Poetry Fest

2009-04-25T11:46:00.001-05:00

Saturday, April 25, 2009 @ 2:30 p.m. in the Video Theater

Its poetry month and we are taking the chisme box and our favorite Latina poets with us to the 10th annual Poetry Fest @ The Harold Washington Library.

Featured readers: Cristina Correa, Stephanie Gentry-Fernandez, Irasema Gonzalez, Diana Pando.

Poetry Fest is a free festival of poetry readings, workshops, performances and discussions, all under one roof.

Jorge Valdivia talks to us about Sor Juana's quinceanera

2009-04-23T11:35:00.011-05:00

On May 16th, Proyecto Latina returns to the Sor Juana festival to celebrate literary and musical contributions from Latina artists. The lineup includes: Alla, Gwendolyn Zepeda, Claudia Guadalupe Martinez, Lisa Alvarado, and Dawn Herrera-Terry. Diana Pando recently had a chance to talk to Jorge Valdivia, the Director of Performing arts at the National Museum of Mexican Art, about the 15th anniversary of the Sor Juana Festival, an annual tribute to Mexican women.

Part I: Interview with Jorge Valdivia, 5:44

Part II: Interview with Jorge Valdivia, 6:15

Get the Sor Juana 2009 Chicago calendar here (pdf).

Sandra Cisneros: Compost your rage & fuel your art

2009-04-20T13:09:00.009-05:00

That's Jorge Valdivia with Sandra Cisneros in the photograph above, it was taken moments before I got to sit down and interview her last Wednesday. Jorge is the Director of Performing arts at the National Museum of Mexican Art and we will be posting an interview with him later this week, so make sure to come back and check for it, he talks to us about the 15th annual Sor Juana Festival.

I owe Jorge, Annie Tully, and Diana Pando, a HUGE shout out and THANK YOU in getting this interview done. It was such an amazing opportunity, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Part I: Interview with Sandra Cisneros, 3:50

Part II: Interview with Sandra Cisneros, 9:10

Part III: Interview with Minerva who writes poems, 2:53

interview by Irasema Gonzalez

Mangos, Chismes y Mucho Más

2009-04-14T14:39:00.009-05:00

This month’s Proyecto Latina honors Sandra Cisneros and includes a sneak peak at Tanya Saracho's adaptation of The House on Mango Street. We encourage you to bring your Mango themed poems, stories and chisme! As always it's FREE and we look forward to seeing you!

Join us on Monday, April 20, 2009 @ 7 p.m. Held at Radio Arte, 1401 W. 18th Street.

Proyecto Latina welcomes Tanya Saracho back this April, we will be featuring a sampling of the full-length play and her adaptatation of the Sandra Cisnero's book The House on Mango Street. Tanya will also share the art process of how she took a lyrical narrative and modified it for the stage.

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros is celebrating its 25th anniversary in print. This Spring its been chosen as the One Book One Chicago for the city to read.

Tanya Saracho was born in Sinaloa, México and moved to Texas in the late 80's . She is the Co-Founding Artistic Director of Teatro Luna: Chicago's All-Latina Theatre, and a resident playwright at Chicago Dramatists and Teatro Vista. Tanya's writing has been featured in most of Teatro Luna's ensemble-built works including "Generic Latina," "Dejame Contarte," "The Maria Chronicles," "SOLO Latinas," "SOLO Tú," "S-E-X-Oh!" and "Lunatic(a)s." Her plays include: "Our Lady of The Underpass" with Teatro Vista (2009), "Surface Day" with Chicago Children's Humanity Festival (2008 ), and "Jarred (A Hoodoo Comedy)" with Teatro Luna (2008). Tanya's play "Kita y Fernanda," a finalist for the 2003 Nuestras Voces playwrighting competition, received productions at Teatro Luna (2003) and 16th Street Theatre (2008). Other Awards include: The Ofner Prize given by the Goodman Theatre, Finalist for the Christopher B. Wolk Award at Abingdon Theatre in NYC, nominee for the Wasserstein Prize and winner of the Khan Award. Saracho's solo play "Quita Mitos" received a world premier with Teatro Luna in November of 2006 and has toured colleges and festivals, including the International Hispanic Theatre Festival and the Goodman's Latino Theatre Festival. Tanya is working on a fellowship in a collaboration between The Goodman Theatre and the Institute for Women and Gender Studies at Columbia College on an interview-based piece titled "27" where she will interview one woman from each of the 27 countries that make up the Latin Diaspora. She is also under commission from Steppenwolf Theatre to craft a musical adaptation Sandra Cisnero's "The House on Mango Street" slated to open in the fall of 2009. Directing/co-directing credits include: "SOLO Tú," "S-E-X-Oh!" and "Lunatic(a)s." the remount of "Generic Latina," "The Maria Chronicles," "Jarred (A Hoodoo Comdey)" and "SÓLO Latinas." Tanya's performing credits include: Neil Labutte's "Fat Pig" with Renaissance Theatreworks in Milwaukee, Migdalia Cruz' "Another Part of the House" with Teatro Vista, "Living Out" with American Theatre Co./Teatro Vista, "Electricidad" at Goodman Theatre and "La Casa De Bernarda Alba" with Aguijon Theater. Tanya's voice can be heard around the country in radio and television commercials.

Check out our interview with Tanya here.

Proyecto Latina provides a platform to showcase work by Latinas. In it's fourth year, the reading series takes place the third Monday of every month, it includes a feature, an open mic and a a chisme box! Proyecto Latina Radio Airs Sundays @ 6 p.m. on WRTE, 90.5 F.M.

Tanya Saracho & Sandra Marquez tell us about the discipline & power in theatre

2009-04-14T13:30:00.012-05:00

Proyecto Latina speaks to the two leading women behind the making of the play Our Lady of the Underpass, which was presented earlier this year by Teatro Vista. Learn about the art process behind each of these women: Sandra Marquez, director, tells us about the required discipline when working in theater and Tanya Saracho, playwright, tells us where to find the power in theatre that will insure that more plays by and for Latin@s are produced.

Part I: Interview with Sandra Marquez, 14:01

Part II: Interview with Tanya Saracho, 21:38

What drives the art and work of Giselle Mercier?

2009-04-10T19:01:00.015-05:00

Proyecto Latina interviews Giselle Mercier, an artist and arts educator with a culturally rich and multi-disciplinary approach to curriculum development in youth arts. Giselle is also an installation artist who draws inspiration from her Panamanian roots and the immigrant experience in an effort to create universal art. Earlier this year Giselle became the executive director for Pro’s Arts Studios in Pilsen, in this interview she also shares thoughts with us on that transition.

Part I: Interview with Giselle Mercier, 5:58

Part II: Interview with Giselle Mercier, 6:05

Part III: Interview with Giselle Mercier, 4:40

interview by Irasema Gonzalez

Hungry Woman In Chicago

2009-03-25T15:16:00.005-05:00

Proyecto Latina just found out about an AWESOME event hosted by the National Museum of Mexican Art. We are thrilled to have Josefina Lopez, acclaimed author of the play and successful film Real Women Have Curves, present her latest work Hungry Woman in Paris.

The event is this Friday and best of all you save a few bucks for drinks afterwards because this event is FREE. Yes, another FREE AND FABULOUS event for you! Spread the word and swing by and support Josefina Lopez's new book. If you are interested in the book they will probably have them there day of or you can always contact Tianguis Online Bookstore for your order.

Friday, March 27 -FREE
Complimentary reception-6pm, Program-7pm
National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 W. 19th Street
Chicago, IL 60608

Hungry Woman in Paris follows the story of a journalist and activist, Canela who believes passion is essential to life; but lately passion seems to be in short supply. It has disappeared from her relationship with her fiancé, who is more interested in controlling her than encouraging her. It's absent from her work, where censorship and politics keep important stories from being
published. And while her family is full of outspoken individuals, the only one Canela can truly call passionate is her cousin and best friend Luna, who just took her own life.

Canela can't recover from Luna's death. She is haunted by her ghost and feels acute pain for the dreams that went unrealized. Cooking school is a sensual and spiritual reawakening that brings back Canela's hunger for life. With a series of new friends and lovers, she learns to once again savor the world around her.

About the Author:
Josefina has had more than eighty productions of her plays throughout the United States. In addition, Josefina is also a poet, performer, designer, lecturer of Women¹s Studies, and Chicano theater and film and has won numerous awards and accolades for her work.

Celebrating Latina Creativity In Chicago

2009-03-25T13:07:00.005-05:00

April is going to be a fabulous month for Latinas on the move! Our very own Irasema Gonzalez and Coya Paz of Proyecto Latina will be on a panel celebrating Latina Creativity in Chicago.

Swing by it's FREE & FABULOUS and we'd love to meet you and hear your thoughts on Latinas in the arts!

DePaul University
Thursday, April 2
Reception - 5:30 p.m.
6 p.m. - Panel
John R. Cortelyon Commons Bldg
2324 N. Freemont St. Chicago, IL

Join a distinguished panel of artists who will discuss the path of their own creative journeys, examine the ways in which their work has been influenced by Sandra Cisneros and The House on Mango Street, and trace the dynamic relationship between artists and their communities.

Panelists: Irasema Gonzalez, Writer/Poet / Proyecto Latina & Founder of Tianguis Books

Bibiana Suarez, Department of Art, Media and Design / DePaul University

Coya Paz, co-founder of Teatro Luna / Proyecto Latina/ The Theatre School / DePaul University

Tanya Saracho, co-founder of Teatro Luna / Adapted The House on Mango Street for the stage

A discussion with the audience will conclude the evening. Part of the 2009 Sor Juana Festival National Museum of Mexican Art and the 3rd Annual Cesar Chavez Service and Values Series Steans Center / DePaul University

Co-sponsors: The Department of English, Latin American and Latino Studies Program and The Women’s Center

For more information: (773) 325-7839 or (773) 325-7558 Free and open to the public.

Upcoming Interview: The Luna Blues Machine

2009-03-25T12:51:00.002-05:00

Proyecto Latina Radio’s music director Yolanda Cardenas had an opportunity to interview sister songbirds Maritza and Belinda Cervantes of the Luna Blues Machine. This Chicago-based band is on the move and will have you jamming to acoustic hip-hop with soul, folk, Latin and any other genres that will have you out of your seat dancing. Check back here for details of when this interview will air on 90.5 F.M WRTE or online at our website. They have a CD release party coming up on April 4, at the Box Company in the Back of the Yards neighborhood. They even have a brand new website full of music, pix and other good stuff. For more details log on to the Luna Blues Machine.

Directorial debut @ S-e-x-oh! remix

2009-03-23T13:54:00.014-05:00

Erika Sanchez, our correspondent for Proyecto Latina Radio show is spending her spring break in Ireland and we hope she's enjoying herself and drinking a Guiness or two. As she was packing to leave for her big trip, she dashed out to Berwyn's 16th Street Theater to interview Yadira Correa and Dana Cruz--its a directorial debut for both ladies with the production of S-e-x-oh! the remix. Listen to Ericka's interview with both ladies.

Part I: Interview with Yadira Correa and Dana Cruz, 3:47

Part II: Interview with Yadira Correa and Dana Cruz, 2:22

Part III: Interview with Yadira Correa and Dana Cruz, 3:07

Part IV: Interview with Yadira Correa and Dana Cruz, 4:17

Part V: Interview with Yadira Correa and Dana Cruz, 4:33

S-e-x-oh! the remix runs through March 29th. You can get ticket and show details here.

interview by Ericka Sanchez

Pistolera Power!

2009-03-18T15:16:00.003-05:00

This Spring stay tuned for Irasema's interview with Pistolera lead singer Sandra Velásquez and Mari Elena the accordion diva!

Yolanda Nieves: documenting the daughter's of the diaspora

2009-03-16T11:44:00.008-05:00

I had the opportunity to sit down with Yolanda Nieves a couple of weeks ago in anticipation for our Proyecto Latina March 16th feature of Brown Girl Chronicles. It was a couple of days before they premiered the sold-out show and I was invited to stick around after our chat to see a dress rehearsal of the show. What a treat, I can't wait to check them out again tonight--and I know that they have recently scheduled more show dates for May.

Yolanda and the inter-generational Vida Bella Ensemble allowed me back-stage access and indulged all my questions. Below is the my interview with Yolanda Nieves. She speaks about how Brown Girl Chronicles emerged, the idea of permission is explored, and you learn how she decided to focus her lens on the experience of second generation Puerto Rican women from Humboldt Park—-she calls them daughters of the diaspora* whose families immigrated from Puerto Rico to Chicago through Operation Boot Strap**.

Part I: Interview with Yolanda Nieves, 8:18

Part II: Interview with Yolanda Nieves, 7:54

Part III: Interview with Yolanda Nieves, 5:32

*The term diaspora refers to the movement of any population sharing common ethnic identity who were either forced to leave or voluntarily left their settled territory, and became residents in areas often far removed from the former. Diasporic cultural development often assumes a different course from that of the population in the original place of settlement. It tends to vary in culture, traditions and other factors between remotely separated communities. The last vestige of cultural affiliation in a diaspora is often found in community resistance to language change and in maintenance of religious practice.

**Operation Bootstrap or "Operación Manos a la Obra" is the name given to the ambitious projects which industrialized Puerto Rico in the mid-20th century. The goal was that the densely populated island could not subsist on an agrarian system, so the government encouraged the establishment of factories. Puerto Rico enticed US companies by providing labor at costs below those on the mainland, access to US markets without import duties, and profits that could enter the country free from federal taxation. Through this project, a rural agricultural society was transformed into an industrial working class. Unfortunately by the 1960s, Operation Bootstrap was increasingly hampered by a growing unemployment problem thus leading to the forced migration that Yolanda Nieves spoke about.

One Book, One Chicago-House On Mango Street

2009-03-14T22:28:00.007-05:00

This week the Mayor announced the One Book, One Chicago selection. Felicidades to Sandra Cisneros and her book The House On Mango Street! The book is in its 25th Anniversary and still delighting readers of all ages.

The House On Mango Street was published in 1984 and traces Esperanza Cordero's coming-of-age through a series of vignettes about her family, neighborhood, and secret dreams. Esperanza's character shows us her self-empowerment and will to overcome obstacles of poverty, gender, and race. I got a copy of the book in Spanish and I’m so excited to send it to my 11 year-old niece Aylín in Mexico City.

Sandra Cisneros was born in Chicago in l954, the third child and only daughter in a family of seven children. I studied at Loyola University of Chicago (B.A. English 1976) and the University of Iowa (M.F.A. Creative Writing 1978). She worked as a teacher and counselor to high-school dropouts, as an artist-in-the schools where I taught creative writing at every level except first grade and pre-school, a college recruiter, an arts administrator, and as a visiting writer at a number of universities including the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Read more about Sandra’s books here!

One Book, One Chicago was inaugurated in the fall of 2001, the One Book, One Chicago program is launched each spring and fall to cultivate a culture of reading and discussion in Chicago by bringing our diverse city together around one great book. Past winners include, one of my favorites, Tell It To The Mountain by James Baldwin. The Press Conference: When I arrived at the Harold Washington Library I found an army of cameramen shooting footage of the press conference and people flipping through pages of the book. Proyecto Latina Radio Co-Producer Irasema Gonzalez was already there and lurking between book aisles I spotted Radio Arte’s General Manager Silvia Rivera and made my way towards them. I always find myself greatly entertained when I’m in the company of these two women. The press conference took a weird turn when the Mayor went from talking about The House On Mango Street to drugs in Mexico. I think it took away from the focus of the book and hope no one associates the book with drugs in Mexico. While he said things I agreed with it was definitely a different press conference. A couple of years ago… I remember Irasema dragging me all the way to Loyola University one cold March day to see a special reading by Sandra Cisneros. I was resisting because it was early in the morning. I am so thankful I went because not only was her reading amazing something unexpected happened. When it was our turn at the book signing we asked her about writing and she said, “Start a writing group and she pointed to other women in the room that had asked the same question. Sandra doesn’t know this but she is our writing group Madrina and we’ve been writing ever since. Her suggestion brought me together with other wonderful writers like Professor Lizann Acosta, Dr. Yolanda Cardenas, PhD. Candidate Magda Banda and Tianguis Book Store Owner Irasema Gonzalez and together we form the Maravilla Writing Collective. Click on this link for a video interview with Sandra Cisneros. Also Irasema will be interviewing Sandra and scheduled to air on Sunday, April 18 at 6 p.m. on 90.5 FM WRTE. Proyecto Latina extends un ABRAZOTE FUERTE to Sandra Cisneros for her wonderful writing and for opening puertas for the rest of us!

PROYECTO LATINA - MARCH

2009-03-11T09:53:00.002-05:00

The Brown Girls’ Chronicles: The Director’s Cuts Otherwise Known as “Antojitos”

Springtime is right around the corner and Proyecto Latina has some wonderful surprises for you! We KICK OFF our March Proyecto Latina with a special Director's Cut from the Brown Girls' Chronicles so even if you missed their sold out show you can still check them out.

The Brown Girls' Chronicles: Puerto Rican Women and Resilience is a
collection of the stories,voices and songs that long to be heard; the stories of how race, ethnicity, gender, and colonialism shape the lives of marginalized women.

Proyecto Latina Co-Producer Irasema Gonzalez will be doing
an interview with the lovely and talented ladies of the BrownGirl's
Chronicles. You can listen to the interview Sundays at 6 p.m. or
check back on the Proyecto Latina website for the podcast.

Monday, March 16 @ 7 p.m. -FREE!
Radio Arte
1401 W. 18th Street
Chicago, IL 60608
http://www.mapquest.org
Near blue line / 60 Blue Island Bus/18th St. Bus
Gotta a question? Info@proyectolatina.org

Written and directed by Yolanda Nieves, The Brown Girls'
Chronicles are the stories of second generation Puerto Rican
women who in their day-to-day lives are the embodiment of
struggle for independence of  mind, soul, heart and body.

The Brown Girls' Chronicles is the long-time
realized desire of Nieves to continue the construction
of her identity, a desire shared by her generation and
by the youth of Chicago too. The show, based on the
collection of interviews from scores of second
generation Puerto Rican women, is perfectly described
as "…a vibrant and truthful perspective of the Puerto Rican
woman's experience in Chicago...
" by cultural/artistic activist Carlos Flores, "...it eradicates
an existing void."

The Vida Bella Ensemble features:

Laura Magdalena Nieves is a third generation Puerto Rican
woman born and raised inChicago. Laura is pursuing her
bachelor’s degree in zoology and is a member of Phi Theta
Kappa, a national honor society. She is also a spoken word
artist and a sketch artist.  Laura has danced with Grupo Yuba,
a bomba-plena dance troupe from Chicago, as well as with Spicy
Dance Rhythms, the all women’s dance troupe at Wright College.
Two years ago she made her debut in the play “Brown Girls
Singing.”   Laura is excited to be working with the amazing cast of
“The Brown Girls’ Chronicles” and is grateful for the influence strong
Puerto Rican women have had in her life.

Anabel Duarte is a second generation Puerto Rican
woman and isproud of having been born and raised in
Humboldt Park.  A Gordon Tech High School graduate,
Anabel is currently attending Northeastern Illinois University
and majoring in business management. “The Brown Girls’
Chronicles” is Anabel’s first production. Anabel is excited
and thankful to be part of this endeavor.  It is her desire that
women everywhere can connect with the universal message
of the Brown Girl Chronicles.

Natalie Mia Bermeo is a second generation Puerto Rican
woman with a strong passion for acting and the performing arts.
A sophomore at Carl Schurz High School, Natalie has been
acclaimed for her work in improvisational theater. A member of
Las Caras Lindas, a mentoring program for young Puerto Rican
women established this year in the Humboldt Park community,
Natalie is delighted to be a member of the Vida Bella Ensemble,
and is determined to pursue acting for many years to come.

Yolanda Nieves is a second generation Puerto Rican
woman born and raised in Humboldt Park.  She is the
“The Brown Girls’ Chronicles” playwright and director.
Yolanda is also an award winning poet (The Jane’s
Stories Foundation award winner 2006) and published
her first collection of poems, Dove over Clouds, in 2007.
In 2007, Yolanda successfully co-wrote and co-directed
her first production, “Brown Girls Singing” which was
successfully staged at University of Chicago and Jane
Addams’ Hull House. She has also performed parts of the
play to great acclaim at the University of Manchester, England;
the University of Guanajuato, Mexico; and the University of 
Rio Piedras in Puerto Rico.  Yolanda performs her poetry at
various Chicago venues and is an active member
of the Neighborhood Writing Alliance-Humboldt Park Branch.
She holds a B.A. from Loyola University, an M.A. from Loyola
University,
an M.A. from Northeastern Illinois University, and is currently
a doctoral candidate at National-Louis University.  She is also
a Diversifying Faculty in Illinois Fellowship winner. Yolanda is
grateful for the circle of women, those of the past, present, and
future, and all the godmothers and godfathers that have sustained
the creative integrity of “The Brown Girls’ Chronicles: Puerto Rican
Women and Resilience.”

Diana Cruz is a third generation Puerto Rican
woman.   She is honored to be part of the Vida Bella
Ensemble and  performing in the Brown Girls’ Chronicles.
A Chicago native,  she holds a B.A. in Communications and
is pursuing her Master’s  degree at Spertus Institute.  She is a
proud member of Saboreando  Obras Latinas (S.O.L.), and
independent publishing press, and is an  active participant of
the Neighborhood Writing Alliance.  Diana also sings with the
Chicago Puerto Rican Community Chorus.  She has  been
published in several issues of the Journal of Ordinary Thought
and Area Magazine. Diana sends her love and gratitude to
her S.O.L.  sistas, her family, and husband.

Esmeralda Cuevas is a second generation Puerto Rican
woman, born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and joins Vida
Bella Ensemble as a first-time performer. She has always
had an interest in theatre performance, and has acquired
valuable experience through various acting classes and
workshops at both Columbia College and Act One Studios.
Aside from her theatre aspirations, Esmeralda has also
founded her own dance instruction company – Move UR
Hips, Inc. – offering private dance lessons in non-competitive
Latin dance styles. She is also a member of Las Divas Promotions,
with fellow cast member Yvonne Nieves, providing public relations
and marketing services to local businesses. In addition to these
various interests and commitments, Esmeralda spends her daytime
hours working as an assistant for the Human Resources department
of The Marmon Group/ Chicago Public Schools.

Marisel Melendez is a second generation Puerto Rican mother,
daughter, sister, poet, and author.  Her current work is an unpublished
manuscript in progress that relates her personal experiences of her
life’s challenges as a Puerto Rican woman growing up in Humboldt
Park. Marisel has a passion for the spoken word and she is the founder
of the Amaryllis Book Club, where young Latinas in middle school get
the opportunity to put their thoughts into poetry.  She is a proud member
of Saboreando Obras Latinas (S.O.L.), an independent publishing Puerto
Rican women’s press.  As a member of the Neighborhood Writing Alliance
she has had several of her poems published in The Journal of Ordinary
Thought, and most recently in Area Magazine.

Yvonne Nieves is a third generation Puerto Rican and a budding
entrepreneur. After working as an organizer for yearsin the Puerto
Rican community and obtaining her degree in Anthropology, she
realized that her passion was working in the music industry. She is
the head of Las Divas Promotions and works as an independent
contractor, providing support and resources to records labels, local
bands and small businesses. You may recognize her for her role as
Tuti in the 2004 film "Urban Poet" produced by New Film Productions.

Sandra Posada is a second generation Puerto Rican
woman born and bred in Humboldt Park. She is a teacher,
published artist/illustrator, artisan; creator of Coqueta Creations
by PiXie- jewelry line for women.  Sandra has been a Bilingual
educator within the Chicago Public Schools for 12 years
and was recently nominated for the Illinois Golden Apple Award.
Sandra successfully co-wrote her first production, "Brown Girls
Singing" which was successfully staged at University of Chicago
and Jane Addams' Hull House. Sandra performs her poetry at
various Chicago venues and has presented her art work at various
local venues including the University of Illinois, Chicago and
the Symposium for Women of Color in 2008. She holds a B.A.
from Roosevelt University and is currently a working on her M.A.
in Bilingual/ Bicultural Education at DePaul University. Sandra
believes strongly in that art can educate.  Sandra hopes that everyone
who comes to see The Brown Girls Chronicles will walk
away with a fresh perspective of who "second generation Puerto
Rican women" are.

TL Chicas Talk S-E-X-OH!

2009-03-11T09:28:00.005-05:00

Everyone needs a little S-E-X-OH in their life...

This month Proyecto Latina gives your ear some stimulation. Proyecto Latina Radio Correspondent Erick Sanchez had an opportunity to interview co-directors Dana Cruz and Yadira Correa. From what I hear she had a blast interviewing them on the remount of of S-E-X-Oh.

Check back for more details on when the interview will air. Your ears will thank you for it. Proyecto Latina Radio airs every Sunday at 6 p.m. on WRTE 90.5 F.M. We will also be posting the audio here.

I saw the show the first time it was produced and really enjoyed it. I'm excited to see the new cast which features a new crop of Latina Talent: Stephanie Gentry Fernandez, Hannah Gomez, Diane Herrera, Christina Nieves, Maria Enriquez, and Selene Mojica

Originally produced to great acclaim and sold-out houses, S-E-X-Oh! is Teatro Luna’s fourth original ensemble built show, taking up the intersections between sex, gender, and latinidad. Based on Teatro Luna's true life stories, plus a few strategic re-imaginings, S-E-X-Oh! takes aim at sexuality in irreverent and fearless Teatro Luna fashion: Anything from the Virgin Mary, to Biblical Stories; from Video Games to Trader Joe's is up for grabs.

The production runs through March 6 -29
16th Street Theater in the Berwyn Cultural Center, 6420 16th Street, Berwyn
For reservations log on to www.16thstreettheater.org and www.teatroluna.org

"What Drives Us to Create?"

2009-03-11T09:25:00.000-05:00

Our January feature/ Proyecto Latina Radio Music Director Yolanda Cardenas wanted to share some thoughts on creativity. We are delighted to share her words with you in this post. Enjoy! -Diana

Lately, I've been thinking about this question. Even those in professions not normally associated with the arts, often have a desire to be creative. There seems to be an endless stream of people interested in taking courses from photography to knitting. The term "arts" can encompass everything from music and acting to cooking and knitting. Is it a desire in all of us, not just the artists of our society? Is it tied tightly to our humanity that we couldn't survive or progress without it?

I feel a need to process my environment/experiences and capture them in way to preserve certain memories/emotions. Sometimes it is just a way of channeling my emotions into something concrete. At times I find it easier to express myself through an art medium such as writing, photography, or drawing. My creative endeavors are almost like a history book for me and about me. It is important to remember the past to avoid repeating the same mistakes.

What also draws me to the "arts" is its representation of the beauty that humans are capable of creating with their hands/bodies along with the materials of the earth. Daily, we see the negative side of mankind in the paper, the television, and the internet. It is nice to be reminded we are capable of more than destruction.

Yolanda Cardenas, M.D.

To write or pay rent?

2009-02-19T14:47:00.014-06:00

Stephanie Elizondo Griest, the author of Mexican Enough, Around the Bloc and 100 Places every woman should go talks to us about writing and travel and the creative ways she has managed to finance her writing. Below is a two part interview and a segment from a reading of Mexican Enough.

Part I: Interview with Stephanie Elizondo Griest, 8:12

Part II: Interview with Stephanie Elizondo Griest, 6:04

Part III: Reading from Mexican Enough, 7:41

*This interview first aired on Proyecto Latina Radio on Radio Arte, 02/08/09.

La Mocosas Gritan

2009-02-17T10:19:00.001-06:00

La Mocasas Gritan was the name of a panel that included former participants of Sandra Cisnero's Macondo workshop in San Antonio. I was thrilled when I saw this panel listed in the AWP program book. Making my way through the throngs of conference attendees I began to think of how fortunate I was to be able to attend the conference with the support of of Dra.Cardenas (mil gracias).

When I get to the room it is already packed and I grab a seat in the back. Looking at the audience I'm excited to see so many Latinos. I try not to look at the carpeting or the wall paper in this room because it gives me anxiety.

I peek at the women on the panel that include: Lorraine Lopez, Gabriela Jaurequi, Angie Chau, Daisy Hernandez, Erin Badhand and Laura Negrete.

The panel begins and they all begin to read their work. I felt so proud to be listening to the works of these writers. Their work all varied and I walked away feeling inspired by their creativity.

The moderator mentioned that the Macondo workshop is now has open applications and the deadline is in April.

The Macondo Foundation works with dedicated and compassionate writers who view their work and talents as part of a larger task of community-building and non-violent social change. Macondo is a community of poets, novelists, journalists, performance artists, and creative writers of all genres whose work is socially-engaged. What unites us is a commitment to serve our under-served communities through our writing.

Officially incorporated in 2006, the Macondo Foundation has its roots in the Macondo Writing Workshop (named after the sleepy town in Gabriel García Marquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude), which began in 1995 in the kitchen of poet and writer Sandra Cisneros. The Workshop rapidly grew from 15 to more than 120 participants in less than nine years. During that time, the Macondo Workshop expanded its community involvement through annual events with the Our Lady of the Lake University, UT-San Antonio, Trinity University, Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, Jump-Start Performance Theatre, Casa de Maria y Marta and the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center. Macondo currently makes its home at Our Lady of the Lake University.

Malinche's Daughter Comes To Chicago

2009-02-07T13:37:00.001-06:00

Proyecto Latina: Reading series & open mic

Monday, February 16th @ 7 p.m.

Michelle Otero arrives from New Mexico to feature at the next evening of Proyecto Latina. We are honored to have her and hope you will join us to discover the power of her work.

Proyecto Latina:
Reading Series & Open Mic

Monday, February 16th, 2009 @ 7 p.m.

Featuring:
Michelle Otero
author of Malinche's Daughter

PROYECTO LATINA TAKES PLACE
THE THIRD MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH

Proyecto Latina is held at Radio Arte,

1401 W. 18th Street, Chicago, IL

on the corner of 18th and Blue Island.

Michelle Otero is the author of Malinche's Daughter (Momotombo Press, 2006), an essay collection based on her work with women survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Oaxaca, Mexico. Her work has appeared or is forthcoming in Artful Dodge, Puerto del Sol, Upstreet, Brevity, Great River Review, and Metamorfósis, a Spanish-language anthology published by the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Her awards include a Fulbright Fellowship, an Association of Writing Programs Intro Journal Award, and fellowships from the Anderson Center, the McCune Foundation and the Barbara Deming Memorial Fund. Otero is a founding member of The Women Writers' Collective, an El Paso-based group that showcases the talents of women writers and artists while raising awareness of women's issues. In Albuquerque, she performs with Las Meganenas, a repertory theatre troupe that uses performance to raise awareness of issues facing Latinas. She holds a B.A. in History from Harvard University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Vermont College.

Read more about Malinche's Daughter, including an interview with Michelle Otero at our Momotombo Store.

Proyecto Latina is a collaboration between Tianguis Books, Teatro Luna and Mariposatomica Ink.

Latino Writers @ AWP Conference

2009-02-07T11:00:00.002-06:00

Tianguis / Proyecto Latina's very own Irasema Gonzalez will be on the move this February doing the magic at this year's AWP conference held in Chicago. We hope you will come out and support some of these events. You can register for the conference at http://www.awpwriter.org

Thursday, February 12, 2009 @ 1:30 p.m.

Building, Breaking, Rebuilding: Six Chicago Literary Landscapers (Ellen Placey Wadey, Erin Teegarden, Krista Franklin, Joel Craig, Jennifer Karmin, Irasema Gonzalez) We are the bold sluggers who run Chicago's independent reading series. Set vividly against the established grid, we build literary communities in neighborhoods from the ground up. How are we thriving in the face of our challenges? Less like a panel and more like a virtual show-and-tell, organizers from a diverse group of popular, D-I-Y reading serieses discuss building, breaking from, and rebuilding Chicago's literary landscape.

Thursday, February 12, 2009 @ 6 p.m.
Con Tinta Celebration
An evening to celebrate the Chicano/Latino literary community. This year's Con Tinta Award recipient is Carlos Cortez, artist, poet, printmaker, photographer, songwriter and lifelong political activist. Special recognition will also be made to Patti Hartmann, editor of Camino del Sol Series at the University of Arizona Press. Literary tributes to Carlos Cortez will be made by Carlos Cumpian, Lisa Alvarado, and Ray Gonzalez. Held at COCO Restaurant, 2723 W. Divison, Chicago, IL. Free. Open buffet and cash bar.

Friday, February 13, 2009, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Palabra Pura, Special Edition: One Poem Festival
Following up on the multi-voiced reading hosted by ACENTOS in NYC last year during AWP, the Guild Complex, Letras Latinas, and Poetry Magazine will be hosting a "One Poem Festival" featuring an ample roster of Latino and Latina poets from Chicago and out of town, including: Lisa Alvarado, Carlos Cumpian, Silvia Curbelo, Gina Franco, Gabe Gomez, Irasema Gonzalez, Maurice Kilwein Guevara, Gabriela Jauregui, Olivia Maciel, Carl Marcum, Valerie Martínez, Orlando Ricardo Menes, Achy Obejas, Daniel A. Olivas, Johanny Vasquez Paz, Paul Martinez Pompa, Linda Rodríguez, Jacob Saenz, Jorge Sánchez, Juan Manuel Sanchez Rich Villar. Held at Jazz Showcase, 47 W. Polk St. Chicago, IL.

Proyecto Latina - 2009

2009-02-07T10:06:00.000-06:00

Proyecto Latina enters its 4th year!

Monday, January 19, 2008 @ 7 p.m.

We invite you to join us for the first Proyecto Latina of 2009, we are celebrating with cake and wine and kicking off our fourth year with our featured poet Yolanda Cardenas.

In a city known as a mecca of arctic cold, bizarre weather and medicine, a modern day Dr. Zhivago emerges. While Dra. Yolanda Cardenas completed her family medicine training, this Chicago native also honed her writing. Although there's no Russian revolution in her future, she's primed for social change and a medical revolution. Read full bio.

Proyecto Latina is held @ Radio Arte, 1401 W. 18th Street
on the corner of 18th and Blue Island.

January 2010 - PROYECTO LATINA

2009-01-15T15:50:00.000-06:00

Proyecto Latina is thrilled to announce the first Latina to kick off our reading series in January! Stephanie Diaz Reppen will be reading an excerpt from her novel-in-progress You Can't Call The Indians Maria Anymore. She will also be premiering a new Bunraku-based puppetry piece called Dichos as well as bringing along the book her mother made me when she was little- The Seven Little Goats-- for people to look at.

Save The Date & Spread The Word!

Monday, January 18 @ 7PM - FREE
Cedahlia's 1010 -12 S Western
Chicago, IL 60608 (312) 733-0885
Street Parking Available
http://www.transitchicago.com
http://www.mapquest.com

Stephanie Diaz Reppen is delighted to share her own stories with Proyecto Latina, as she has been busy for the past 20 years telling others' stories in her career as an actress. As such, she has performed at theatres big and small in California, Seattle, Chicago, Minneapolis, Kansas City and Milwaukee, and has also enjoyed a career as a voice-over artist, lending her voice to audio books, video games, commercial spots-- at one time, she was the Spanish voice of the Puget Sound Light Rail system (and may still be, for all she knows)! She is also a puppeteer specializing in the Bun Raku style, and most recently performed with Blair Thomas and Company in Millennium Park.

However, Stephanie's first love has always been writing, and she comes by the predilection honestly-- on display at Proyecto Latina, you will find a hand-bound book created for her by her mother, illustrations and all. She is currently at work on a novel, "You Can't Call The Indians Maria Anymore", based on 3 generations of mujeres in Guatemala and the U.S. spanning over 50 years. She is a member of Teatro Luna's Playlab workshop and is developing a play called "Boogey Women," featuring La Llorona, La Siguanaba, and Bloody Mary. She is also currently exploring the duality of her identity as an first-generation Guatemalan-American through personal essay and character sketches of her Gringo and Latino familia.

She is inspired and intrigued by courage and cowardice, strength and weakness, beauty and ugliness, joy and despair, and all things shiny and colorful. She looks forward to adding her voice to the canon of Latina writers in 2010.

We also want to thank Jesse Iniquez for generously donating his space. Mil Gracias!