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Celebrating 6 Latin Caribbean Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month

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Photos: @ozuna on IG, VOGUE Taiwan via Wikimedia and @JLO on IG

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s recognize the influence of not just Latin Caribbean giants in history, but also of today’s Latin Caribbean culture and its icons on the global stage. From musicians and politicians to actors and activists, these Latin Caribbean icons continue to inspire new generations. 

Celebrating 6 Latin Caribbean Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
Photo: Toglenn, via Wikimedia

1. Bad Bunny | Puerto Rico

Puerto Rican reggaeton and trap artist Bad Bunny has revolutionized the Latin music industry with hits like “Dákiti,” “Yo Perreo Solo” and the chart topping crossover hit “I Like It” with Cardi B. He has been nominated for nine Grammy Awards, winning three: Best Latin Pop or Urban Album in 2021, Best Música Urbana Album in 2022, and a third in 2023. Bad Bunny also has nominations and wins from the American Music Awards, ASCAP Latin Awards, Billboard Music Awards, the iHeartRadio Music Awards and various others, with his total win count at a staggering 181 awards out of 481 nominations.

Beyond music, Bad Bunny is known for his unapologetic advocacy of social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, and for using his platform to champion marginalized voices.


Celebrating 6 Latin Caribbean Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
(Public Domain)

2. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez | Puerto Rico

Known as AOC, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is the youngest woman ever elected to the U.S. Congress, where she represents New York’s 14th Congressional District. With Puerto Rican heritage, AOC is a progressive leader in the Democratic Party, advocating for policies that address climate change, economic inequality and racial justice. Her bold stance on important issues and her use of social media to communicate directly with constituents make her a trailblazer in American politics.


Celebrating 6 Latin Caribbean Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
Chrisallmeid, via Wikimedia

3. Cardi B | Dominican Republic/Trinidad

Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, better known as Cardi B, has skyrocketed to fame with her unfiltered personality and chart-topping hits like “Bodak Yellow” and “WAP.” Born to a Dominican father and a Trinidadian mother, Cardi B’s dual Caribbean heritage is reflected in her music and attitude. As a rapper, actress and social media personality, she has broken down barriers for women in hip-hop and is known for speaking out on political and social issues affecting the Latino and Black communities.


Celebrating 6 Latin Caribbean Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
Photo via @ozuna on IG

4. Ozuna | Dominican Republic/Puerto Rico

Born to a Puerto Rican mother and Dominican father, Ozuna is one of the most successful Latin music artists of the last decade. Known for songs like “Taki Taki” and “Baila Baila Baila,” he’s become a leading figure in the Latin urban music scene. Ozuna’s clean-cut image and global reach have made him a favorite among fans, transcending borders and cultures. 

Ozuna has won 12 Billboard Latin Music Awards, including prestigious titles like Artist of the Year and Hot Latin Artist of the Year, Male. He secured two Latin Grammy Awards and six Latin American Music Awards, and was recognized as the Contemporary Latin Songwriter of the Year at the BMI Latin Awards. 

He holds four Guinness World Records, including most weeks at number one on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums chart for his album Odisea, and most Billboard Latin Music Award wins in a single year with 11 in 2019. He also set records for most nominations in a single year and most videos reaching one billion views on YouTube.


Celebrating 6 Latin Caribbean Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
(Public Domain)

5. Sonia Sotomayor | Puerto Rico

Sonia Sotomayor’s journey to the U.S. Supreme Court is a story of resilience and excellence. Raised in a working-class Puerto Rican family in the Bronx, she overcame early challenges, including the death of her father when she was nine, to pursue a career in law. After graduating as valedictorian from high school, she earned a scholarship to Princeton and later attended Yale Law School. Her early career as a prosecutor and private attorney solidified her reputation as a sharp legal mind. She was appointed to the federal bench by George H. W. Bush and later to the U.S. Court of Appeals by Bill Clinton before President Obama appointed her to the Supreme Court in 2009.

As a justice, Sotomayor has consistently advocated for marginalized communities, supporting affirmative action, LGBTQ+ rights, and healthcare access. Her historic appointment marked her as the first Hispanic and third woman to serve on the Supreme Court, where she continues to champion equity and justice for all.


Celebrating 6 Latin Caribbean Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
Photo via @jlo on IG

6. Jennifer Lopez | Puerto Rico

One of the most iconic Latin entertainers of all time, Jennifer Lopez (J.Lo) continues to push boundaries in music, film and fashion. From her breakout role in Selena to chart-topping hits like “On the Floor,” J.Lo has consistently represented her Puerto Rican heritage while dominating mainstream pop culture. As an actress, singer and entrepreneur, she has broken glass ceilings for Latinx artists, serving as a global ambassador for the power of the Latin community.

Lopez originally began her rise to fame as a Fly Girl dancer on In Living Color in 1991. Transitioning to acting, she earned critical acclaim for portraying Selena in the 1997 biopic, earning her a Golden Globe nomination. Lopez was the first Latin actress to earn over $1 million for a film role. A Hollywood heartthrob, she has starred in various romantic comedies, including hits like The Wedding Planner (2001) alongside Matthew McConaughey, The Back-up Plan (2010), and Shotgun Wedding (2022). 

Her music career took off with her debut album On the 6 (1999), with hits like “Waiting for Tonight” and “Let’s Get Loud,” both receiving Grammy nominations. Lopez’s second album J.Lo (2001) solidified her pop stardom.

In addition to her entertainment career, Lopez has been honored for her fashion influence and humanitarian efforts. Notably, she received the GLAAD Vanguard Award and the Fashion Icon Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America. She also has her own self-named skincare line called JLo Beauty®.

Gearing up for Miami Carnival 2024

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Photo by David I Muir

Every year, Miami and Broward transform into a hub of color, music, and culture for the annual Miami Carnival, one of the largest celebrations of Caribbean culture in the United States. 

Now in its 40th year, Miami Carnival is planning a bigger and better extravaganza than ever. The event continues to be a community cornerstone, with people traveling from around the world to participate in a celebration of the resilience and creativity of a people who have, for centuries, used music, dance, and art to tell their stories, assert their identity, and build a sense of community.

The Origins of Miami Carnival

Miami Carnival traces its origins back to the traditional Carnival celebrations of the Caribbean, which themselves have roots in European and African customs. The pre-Lenten festivities that began in Trinidad and Tobago and spread throughout the Caribbean are the foundation upon which Miami Carnival is built. These celebrations were originally brought to the Caribbean by French settlers in the 18th century, but over time, they evolved into unique cultural expressions as enslaved Africans incorporated their own music, dance, and masquerade traditions.

The first Miami Carnival was held in 1985, organized by a group of Caribbean immigrants who wanted to bring the vibrant energy of their homelands to their new city. Over the decades, the event has grown in size and scope, attracting tens of thousands of participants and spectators from around the world. Today, Miami Carnival is a week-long celebration that culminates in a grand parade, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the Caribbean diaspora.

Key Events and Activities

Miami Carnival is more than just a single event. It is a series of activities that highlight different aspects of Caribbean culture. These events provide a platform for both established and emerging Caribbean artists, musicians, and designers to showcase their talents.

Panorama

The festivities kick off with Panorama, a steelpan competition that originated in Trinidad and Tobago in the early 1960s. The steelpan, an instrument created in Trinidad by descendants of enslaved Africans, became a symbol of resistance and identity. After the steelpan’s development in the mid-20th century, the Panorama competition was established in 1963 as part of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival celebrations. The event highlights the ingenuity of steel bands as they compete with complex musical arrangements. 

Today, steelpan orchestras head to Broward County Regional Park from across the region and the diaspora compete to deliver the most impressive performances that have become synonymous with Carnival.

Junior Carnival

As part of the effort to pass down traditions to younger generations, Miami Carnival includes a Junior Carnival, where children don colorful costumes and take to the streets in their own parade. 

This event takes place at Broward County Regional Park on the weekend before the Miami Carnival Road March. The concept of Junior Carnival started gaining popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago, where children dress in elaborate costumes, participate in parades, and enjoy the festivities just like adults. This event is not only a fun day for families but also an important cultural experience for Caribbean-American youth, helping them connect with their heritage.

J’ouvert

A highlight of the Carnival season, J’ouvert is a pre-dawn celebration that marks the official start of the main Carnival day. J’ouvert, derived from the French term “jour ouvert,” meaning “daybreak,” marks the official start of Carnival in many Caribbean islands. Its origins trace back to the 18th and 19th centuries, during the period of slavery and the French colonial rule. Enslaved Africans would hold their own celebrations in the early hours before the elite’s masquerade balls, often using paint, mud, and oil to mask their identities as they mocked and parodied the upper class. 

Now, on the day before Miami Carnival each year, you can find revelers covered in paint and mud dancing in the streets in the early morning around the rodeway at the Broward County Regional Park. 

Mas Bands Parade

The Mas Bands Parade, or Mas (short for Masquerade), is the centerpiece of Miami Carnival. Its origins lie in the traditions of the enslaved Africans brought to the Caribbean, who incorporated elements of their cultural heritage, such as masquerade, music, and dance, into their Carnival celebrations. Over time, these traditions blended with European customs, particularly the masquerade balls of the French and Spanish colonizers.

By the 19th century, the modern Mas Bands Parade began to take shape, where participants don elaborate, thematic costumes and parade through the streets. Each “band” represents a group of people in coordinated costumes, often competing for various titles based on creativity, execution, and thematic presentation. Today, Mas is a symbol of freedom, creativity, and cultural pride. And the costumes, often months in the making, are a dazzling display of artistry, featuring vibrant colors, feathers, beads and sequins. 

Every year, each mas band embraces a theme that resonates with the collective experiences and aspirations of the Caribbean people. With more than 20 bands featuring themes like “The Sounds of Music” to “Ravenous” and “Night at the Louvre” there are so many costumes to explore. 

Carnival Village

At the heart of Miami Carnival is the Carnival Village, where attendees can immerse themselves in Caribbean culture. The village features food vendors offering traditional Caribbean dishes, arts and crafts stalls, and live performances by Caribbean artists. 

As Miami Carnival continues to grow and evolve, it remains a vital link between the Caribbean and its diaspora. Whether you are a longtime participant or a newcomer, Miami Carnival offers a unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the very best of the Caribbean.

4 Prominent Hispanic-Caribbean Figures in History

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Throughout history, several Hispanic-Caribbean individuals have risen to prominence, making significant contributions to politics, literature, music, social movements and more. This Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re taking a look at some of these influential figures.

José Martí: The Voice of Cuban Independence

José Martí, often referred to as the “Apostle of Cuban Independence,” was a poet, journalist, philosopher and revolutionary who played a crucial role in the fight for Cuba’s independence from Spanish rule. Born in Havana in 1853, Martí’s writings and speeches advocated for freedom, justice and equality. His seminal work, “Versos Sencillos,” reflects his deep love for Cuba and his commitment to social justice. Martí’s efforts culminated in the Cuban War of Independence in 1895, though he tragically died in battle shortly after it began. His legacy endures in Cuba and beyond, with his ideas and writings continuing to inspire movements for freedom and independence across Latin America and the Caribbean. 


4 Prominent Hispanic-Caribbean Figures in History - Julia de Burgos
“Notable Hispanic American Women”, by: Gale group, 1998; ISBN-13: 9780787620684; Photo source: Curbstone Press, via Wikimedia

Julia de Burgos: Puerto Rico’s Literary Icon

Julia de Burgos, one of Puerto Rico’s most celebrated poets, is renowned for her passionate and socially conscious writings. Born in 1914 in Carolina, Puerto Rico, de Burgos used her poetry to challenge the political and social norms of her time, addressing issues such as colonialism, women’s rights and social inequality. Her work, including the iconic poem “Río Grande de Loíza,” is deeply personal yet universally resonant, reflecting the struggles and hopes of the Puerto Rican people. De Burgos’s life was marked by tragedy, including her untimely death in New York City at the age of 39. However, her influence on Puerto Rican literature and her role as a feminist and nationalist icon have only grown over time.


4 Prominent Hispanic-Caribbean Figures in History - Celia Cruz
Public Domain, via Wikimedia

Celia Cruz: The Queen of Salsa

Celia Cruz, known worldwide as the “Queen of Salsa,” is one of the most influential figures in Latin music. Born in Havana, Cuba, in 1925, Cruz’s voice and magnetic stage presence helped to popularize salsa music around the globe. Throughout her six-decade career, Cruz recorded more than 70 albums and won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards and four Latin Grammy Awards. Her signature catchphrase, “¡Azúcar!” (Sugar!), became synonymous with her vibrant personality and zest for life. Cruz’s music not only entertained millions but also played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Afro-Cuban culture, making her a beloved figure in the Caribbean and beyond.


4 Prominent Hispanic-Caribbean Figures in History - Pedro Albizu Campos
Public domain, via Wikimedia

Pedro Albizu Campos: Champion of Puerto Rican Nationalism

Pedro Albizu Campos was a Puerto Rican attorney and politician who became the most prominent leader of the Puerto Rican independence movement. Born in 1893 in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Albizu Campos was a brilliant student who studied at Harvard University before returning to Puerto Rico to advocate for its independence from the United States. As the leader of the Puerto Rican Nationalist Party, Albizu Campos organized numerous protests and uprisings, including the 1950 Jayuya Uprising, which sought to overthrow U.S. control of the island.

Despite being imprisoned multiple times for his activism, Albizu Campos remained a steadfast advocate for Puerto Rican sovereignty until his death in 1965. Today, he is remembered as a symbol of resistance and an early champion of the island’s right to self-determination.

4 Caribbean Vacation Ideas That Don’t Involve Hotels

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The deep-blue sea with a yacht vacation charter cruising through the waves. The charter is white with a roof and deck.

Are you tired of the same old hotel experiences and looking to spice up your travel adventures? You’re not alone. Adventure seekers are increasingly turning to unique lodging options that offer memorable and immersive experiences—doing away with the typical hotel arrangement.

From sleeping under the stars in a luxury yurt to cruising the clear blue waters on a yacht, non-hotel vacations are capturing the hearts of travelers everywhere. Continue on as we discuss a few Caribbean vacation ideas that don’t involve hotels.

Experience Luxury in Nature With Yurts and Glamping

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, nestled in a cozy yurt or glamping tent surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. This type of vacation offers a perfect blend of comfort and the great outdoors, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing luxury.

Popular glamping spots come with unique amenities like private hot tubs, gourmet dining, and guided nature walks, for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the world around them, yurts and glamping provide an ideal escape.

Immersive Local Adventures With Airbnb Experiences

Airbnb experiences go beyond traditional accommodations by offering travelers the chance to partake in local cultures and experiences. These unique excursions range from cultural workshops to adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities and allow you to experience a destination like a true insider.

In Caribbean locales, you might find yourself learning to dance to reggae rhythms or exploring hidden waterfalls with a local guide. Airbnb experiences offer a fresh perspective on travel and provide endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

Find Tranquility on a Houseboat Vacation

For a serene and peaceful getaway, consider staying on a houseboat. There’s something incredibly calming about being surrounded by water, with the gentle rocking of the boat lulling you into relaxation.

Planning a houseboat vacation involves choosing the right vessel and destination to make sure you have all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Houseboat vacations offer stunning scenery and opportunities for water-based activities, making it a unique way to enjoy your surroundings and skip the hotel reservation.

Explore the Caribbean in Style With a Yacht Vacation

Have you ever dreamed of sailing the Caribbean on a yacht, exploring secluded coves and pristine beaches? Yacht vacations are often perceived as extravagant, but they’re more affordable than many people realize.

By sharing costs with friends or family, you can enjoy the luxurious experience of Caribbean yacht travel without breaking the bank. A yacht vacation provides ample privacy and exclusivity, but it also allows you to customize your itinerary and explore hidden gems at your own pace.

These non-hotel vacation ideas cater to adventure seekers and travelers craving something different. They offer a chance to connect with nature, experience local cultures, and enjoy tranquility like never before. Consider these alternatives for your next getaway and discover the world beyond hotel walls.

SMART Futures Exchange: Securing Our Future at the 2024 UN Summit, Consulate of Jamaica, NY

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New York, NY – The Futures Forum is proud to announce the SMART FUTURES EXCHANGE, a landmark Brain Trust event held in commemoration of the UN Summit of the Future. This event, to be held on 20th September 2024, at the Consulate of Jamaica in New York, will bring together experts, futurists, and thought leaders to focus on actions that address critical global challenges and opportunities and help ensure that we are prepared to secure a sustainable and equitable future for generations to come.

The Brain Trust will feature five high-impact sessions:

  • Advancing Anticipatory Governance
  • Space and the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
  • Ministry of Our Future: Transmedia Storytelling   
  • SIDS (Small Island Developing States) Ocean Futures
  • Caribbean Parliament of the Future

H. E. Brian Wallace, Permanent Representative of Jamaica to the United Nations, serves as the Co-Facilitator of the Declaration of Future Generations process, of the UN Summit of the Future. A pivotal global initiative, this prestigious role highlights Jamaica’s prominence at the United Nations and especially among the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), a coalition of 55 island nations at the forefront of climate action and future-focused policymaking.

The UN Summit of the Future is a crucial moment for multilateral cooperation and global human endeavor. Its outcomes are expected to set the stage for stronger global governance and meaningful action on pressing global issues such as climate change, technological governance, and ensuring the well-being of future generations.

The SMART FUTURES EXCHANGE is being executed by visionary partner organizations including the World Future Studies FederationSpace RenaissanceNational Space SocietyWorld Innovation NetworkThe Futures HiveSIDS Futures Lab, and Caribbean Futures Forum -all working under the leadership of The Futures Forum.

Dr. Claire Nelson, author of the groundbreaking book, ‘SMART Futures for a Flourishing World’ and Lead Trustee of the event, expressed her hopes for the exchange, stating: “This Brain Trust is a unique opportunity to bring together diverse minds and institutions to exchange ideas on how we will address the question ‘How we share our collective futures’. By fostering open dialogue and trading the assets embodied in our proposed plans and programs, across various sectors and audiences, we hope to chart bold paths forward for collaborative action that gives life to the whole of society approach that the Impact Coalitions established by civil society as follow up to the UN Summit of the Future.”

The SMART FUTURES EXCHANGE will be an unprecedented gathering, offering a platform for groundbreaking dialogue on securing a resilient, prosperous, and inclusive future.

For further information or to participate in this landmark event in person, please contact register at SMARTFuturesExchangeLIVE (by SEPT 18) or Join us on ZOOM at SMARTFuturesExchangeOnline

Food For The Poor Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month With Stories of Resilience

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Thanks to Food For The Poor’s Angels Of Hope program, Astre grew up in a home in Honduras where her God-given talent for painting was nurtured from a very young age. As Food For The Poor commemorates National Hispanic Heritage Month, the charity is sharing the impactful journey of individuals like Astre, who have overcome significant challenges and continue to inspire others through their determination and courage. Photo/Food For The Poor

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. (Sept. 17, 2024) – As Food For The Poor (FFTP) celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month, it is proud to spotlight the story of Astre, a woman whose life has been profoundly shaped by the charity’s child sponsorship program, known as Angels Of Hope.

Astre’s journey is one of resilience and triumph.

Scarred by hot milk at the age of 2 and orphaned at 4, she grew up in a home supported by FFTP in Honduras. There, her God-given talent for art was nurtured and celebrated.

Though she cannot recall the exact details of her drawing as a 14-year-old participant in an FFTP art contest, she vividly remembers the impact it had on her.

“The drawing contest was very motivating for me,” Astre said. “I was able to discover my talent and what I was capable of doing, and I started to grow in drawing and later in painting.”

Now 28, Astre is a wife and mother of two. She continues to pursue her passion for art, refining the craft that first captured her heart as a child.

Her vibrant artwork has found its way into various platforms, including being featured on coffee bags produced by CEPUDO, FFTP’s partner in Honduras. Additionally, she designed the cover art for Jamaican recording artist Glacia Robinson’s latest album, “Hands of Mercy,” which was dedicated to FFTP.

“Astre’s journey is a remarkable example of resilience and the transformative power of nurturing talent and hope,” FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine said. “National Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor the rich cultural tapestry and the indomitable spirit of Hispanic communities, and we are proud to share stories like Astre’s that reflect that spirit.”

Astre fondly recalls her time in the Angels Of Hope program, where she felt the love and support that shaped her into who she is today.

“For me, it was happiness,” she said. “It was something so beautiful that even when we leave the home, we miss it. It really helped me a lot, and I saw that they (FFTP) were very supportive to the home.”

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

As FFTP continues its mission to empower communities in Latin America and the Caribbean, stories like Astre’s serve as powerful reminders of the lasting impact of nurturing hope and talent in those most in need.

The Angels Of Hope child sponsorship program supports safe havens where boys and girls can grow and develop mentally and physically.

Established in 2003, this program aims to improve the lives of vulnerable children by providing essential items to the group homes so the children can heal, grow, and thrive in a loving environment where their basic needs, including food, education, and health care, are met.

In 2023, caring donors sponsored 5,545 vulnerable children in 130 children’s homes in Haiti, Jamaica, Guyana, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. The program soon will expand to Colombia, Peru, and Mexico.

Learn more about how to sponsor a child at foodforthepoor.org/angelsofhope.

Food For The Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the nation, does much more than feed millions of hungry children and families living in poverty primarily in 15 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. This interdenominational Christian ministry provides emergency relief assistance, water, medicine, educational materials, homes, support for vulnerable children, care for the aged, skills training, and micro-enterprise development assistance. For more information, please visit foodforthepoor.org.

Beyond Representation: Caribbean Performance Art Reimagined at Pérez Art Museum Miami

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Beyond Representation: Caribbean Performance Art Reimagined at Pérez Art Museum Miami
Jeannette Ehlers. Still from Whip it Good, 2014. Camera: Marcus von Platen. Courtesy the artist.

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is pleased to announce Beyond Representation, an ongoing digital research project and performance series investigating a broad range of performance and performative practices by artists from the Caribbean and of Caribbean descent working in the region or its diasporas. Presented by the museum’s Caribbean Cultural Institute (CCI) and curated by Iberia Pérez González, Beyond Representation features an intergenerational group of artists who employ the body or rely on bodily experience and live action to critically engage with the social, political, and cultural reality of their respective contexts. The fall 2024 performance art series debuts on September 21, 2024, and features live art events by artists Jeannette Ehlers and Tirzo Martha

Focusing on process, audience participation, and examining the relationship with space, matter, or other media, the artists featured in Beyond Representation create work that redefine traditional art-making practices. Jeannette Ehlers and Tirzo Martha’s performances collectively expose and refuse oppressive colonial ideologies while creating multiple narratives of freedom, healing, solidarity, and joy.

Accompanying the onsite performance events at PAMM, the online component of Beyond Representation highlights the abundant contributions of Caribbean creatives to avant-garde performance art. Video works by Jeannette Ehlers, Tirzo Martha, Carlos Martiel, Viveca Vázquez, and Merián Soto will be released on September 26 via PAMMTV, the museum’s first-of-its-kind streaming service that delivers video art from the museum to audiences wherever they are, free of charge. Visit www.pamm.tv for videos and more information.

Beyond Representation is organized by Iberia Pérez González, Andrew W. Mellon Caribbean Cultural Institute Curatorial Associate, with the assistance of the PAMM Education Department and Digital Engagement Department. This exhibition is presented by PAMM’s Caribbean Cultural Institute. Pérez Art Museum Miami’s digital initiatives are funded in part by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. 

Beyond Representation Fall 2024 Programming Presented by CCI

Jeannette Ehlers: We’re Magic. We’re Real # 3 (These Walls)
Braiding Circle | September 21, 1–4pm

This presentation of Ehlers’ We’re Magic. We’re Real # 3 (These Walls) invites the local Afro-Caribbean and Caribbean diaspora community throughout Miami to collaborate on the work by participating in a braiding circle. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in the creation of six 52-foot-long braids that will be used by the performers during the live event on September 26. RSVP here.

Jeannette Ehlers: We’re Magic. We’re Real # 3 (These Walls)
Live Performance | September 26, 5–8pm

In the durational performance We’re Magic. We’re Real # 3 (These Walls), Ehlers employs hair, an important identity marker among the African diaspora, as a simple yet powerful gesture. Connected to PAMM’s third-floor terrace by long cornrows, the performers move back and forth, slowly but insistently. Blending in with the hanging gardens, the hair creates a poetic metaphor for the relationship between culture and nature, body and landscape, history and the present. RSVP here.

Grief and strength are present in equal measure in this meditative performance. Accompanied by the sound of the roar of the Atlantic Ocean, it expresses a yearning for life outside the plantation system, and for the forest as a literal and symbolic sanctuary. We’re Magic. We’re Real # 3 (These Walls) was originally commissioned by Mads Norgaard and first performed in November 2021. 

Tirzo Martha: Act of Valor
Virtual and In-Person Workshops | October–November

Collective Performance | November 7
Taking as a point of departure, the figure of Captain Caribbean, an artistic persona that emerged in Martha’s practice in 2009, the artist and interested participants will reflect on contemporary issues (climate change, war, displacement, hunger, community breakdown, racism) and consider the desire to possess beyond natural powers to bring about change for a better world. Through a series of virtual and in-person workshop sessions, they will define qualities and characteristics of superheroes that will then be designed and shaped into costumes utilizing various materials. Participants will develop individual performances with the artist, which will then fuse into one collective performance presented to the public.

More information on dates and times for Tirzo Martha’s workshops and performance will be available soon.

ABOUT JEANNETTE EHLERS
Jeannette Ehlers is an artist of Danish and Trinidadian descent based in Copenhagen. She graduated from the Royal Danish Academy in 2006. Ehlers’s practice takes shape experimentally across photography, video, installation, sculpture, and performance. Her works often deal with decolonial hauntings, and she insists on the possibility of empowerment and healing in her art, honoring the legacy of resistance in the African diaspora. She unites the historical, the collective, and the rebellious with the familial, the bodily, and the poetic. In the words of writer Lesley-Ann Brown, “Ehlers reminds everyone who participates in or looks at her work that history is not past.”

Ehlers was nominated to create a national monument to the Windrush generation at London Waterloo station in 2021 as well as a decolonial monument in Braunschweig Germany, in 2023. She is co-creator with La Vaughn Belle of the I Am Queen Mary transnational public art project (2018). She has participated in numerous group shows internationally. Her solo exhibitions include Crossing Waters: Ripples of Tomorrow at Le Bicolore (2024); Archives in the Tongue: A Litany of Freedoms at Kunsthal Charlottenborg (2022); Take Root at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (2021); Whip it Good: Spinning from History’s Filthy Mind at Autograph ABP in London (2015); and Say It Loud! at Nikolaj Kunsthal (2014).

ABOUT TIRZO MARTHA
Tirzo Martha’s prolific body of work spans sculpture, video, installation, and performance art. His urge and need to create art has its origin not only in his ability to be creative but also in his humanitarian and social engagement. Although his presentations vary greatly in appearance, his social involvement and the way in which he involves his audience both directly and indirectly in his creative process are common threads in his works.

Martha studied art at the Akademia di Arte Kòrsou before moving to the Netherlands to study fashion and visual art. He returned to Curaçao in 1991. In 2006, he cofounded the Instituto Buena Bista (IBB), a center for contemporary art in Curaçao and a platform dedicated to art and education.

Martha has had many solo exhibitions, including in the Netherlands at the Museum van Bommel van Dam in Venlo, Museum Beelden aan Zee in The Hague, and CODA Museum in Apeldoorn; in Curaçao at the Museo di Kòrsou; in the United States at the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum in Miami; and in France at Paris Fashion Week 2020. His work also has been featured in group exhibitions, including at the Stedelijk Museum Schiedam in the Netherlands, HYBRID CULTURES in Amsterdam, American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center in Washington, DC, the Hong-gah Museum in Taiwan, the Museum of Fine Arts in Split, Croatia; and the Havana Biennial.

ABOUT THE CARIBBEAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
The Caribbean Cultural Institute (CCI) is a curatorial and research platform at Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) dedicated to promoting and supporting the artistic and cultural production of the Caribbean and its diasporas through exhibitions, fellowships, public programs, and collection development.

ABOUT KNIGHT FOUNDATION
The Knight Foundation are social investors who support democracy by funding free expression and journalism, arts, and culture in community, research in areas of media and democracy, and in the success of American cities and towns where the Knight brothers once had newspapers. Learn more at kf.org and follow @knightfdn on social media.

ABOUT PAMMTV
Founded in 2023, PAMMTV is Pérez Art Museum Miami’s streaming gallery for video art, amplifying landmark media from South Florida, Latin America, the Caribbean, and African Diaspora. Through PAMMTV, audiences anywhere can discover boundary-pushing, international media from PAMM’s collection, alongside selections from film festivals, guest curators, and regional filmmakers. Anyone around the world can access PAMMTV for free by visiting www.pamm.tv and creating an account. Create a PAMMTV™ account to start watching now.

ABOUT PAMM
Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), led by Director Franklin Sirmans, promotes artistic expression and the exchange of ideas, advancing public knowledge and appreciation of art, architecture, and design, and reflecting the diverse community of its pivotal geographic location at the crossroads of the Americas. The 40-year-old South Florida institution, formerly known as Miami Art Museum (MAM), opened a new building, designed by world-renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron, on December 4, 2013 in Downtown Miami’s Maurice A. Ferré Park.

The facility is a state-of-the-art model for sustainable museum design and progressive programming and features 200,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor program space with flexible galleries; shaded outdoor verandas; a waterfront restaurant and bar; a museum shop; and an education center with a library, media lab, and classroom spaces.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - JAZZ at Moca

All imagery provided by and belongs to MOCA North Miami

Looking to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month as a Miami local? This year, the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami (MOCA) has curated a series of exciting events throughout September under the banner of Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA, offering a blend of hands-on workshops, dance classes, film screenings and live music. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, film buff or music lover, there’s something for everyone at MOCA North Miami this month. 

MOCA Makers: Light and Language – September 14 | 1 – 3 PM

Kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with a unique opportunity to participate in the “Light and Language” workshop, led by transdisciplinary artist Dimitry Saïd Chamy. Join in as families and participants work together to create a digital alphabet using light boxes and mixed materials. These letters will then project poems composed during MOCA’s Summer Poetry and Art Series, creating a stunning blend of visual art and literature. This family-friendly event is the perfect way to explore the intersection of creativity and culture.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - MOCA's Summer Poetry and Art Series

Dimitry Saïd Chamy’s work draws from his diasporic journey as a queer Haitian-Lebanese immigrant, incorporating elements of science, nature, and storytelling. His artistic approach is a testament to the power of collaboration, play, and innovation. Be sure to RSVP and bring your creativity to light!

RSVP here.


Summer Film Series: Blade Runner – September 18 | 7 – 10 PM

Step into a world of neon-soaked visuals and futuristic intrigue with MOCA’s Summer Film Series. In celebration of the current exhibit, Light Play, the museum will be screening the 1982 sci-fi classic Blade Runner. With its haunting electronic score, complex moral dilemmas, and visually striking urban landscapes, this film is an iconic exploration of humanity’s future. Arrive early to relax in MOCA’s courtyard — seating opens at 7 PM, and the film begins at 8 PM.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - Blade Runner

Set in a dystopian 2019, Blade Runner follows Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) as he hunts down rogue genetically engineered beings, tasked with dangerous and brutal work. This film is recommended for adult audiences, as it delves into dark and complex themes. BYOB and your favorite snacks, and enjoy an unforgettable cinematic experience under the stars!

RSVP here.


Hispanic Heritage Month: Merengue Class – September 18 | 5:30 – 6:30 PM

Get ready to move your hips! Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a free Merengue class led by Miami Dance Center’s Alejandra Fontal. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a total beginner, this class offers a fun way to honor the rhythms and traditions of the Dominican Republic. All ages and skill levels are welcome.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - Merengue class

Hispanic Heritage Month: Cumbia Class – September 25 | 5:30 – 6:30 PM

Continue the Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations with a free Cumbia class at MOCA! Taught by Alejandra Fontal of Miami Dance Center, this event invites participants to embrace the infectious rhythms of Cumbia, a dance deeply rooted in Colombian culture. Sponsored by the Hispanic Heritage Month Committee, this energetic dance session will get your heart pumping and feet moving. 

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - Cumbia class

ALC Trunk Show – September 27 | 6 – 8 PM

Fashion meets philanthropy at the A.L.C. Trunk Show, where you can shop for a cause. MOCA North Miami will host an exclusive pop-up event showcasing designer Andrea Lieberman’s A.L.C. collection. Ten percent of all sales will go directly to support MOCA, making this a fantastic opportunity to update your wardrobe while giving back to the arts. Don’t miss this stylish event in the Museum Lobby!

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - ALC collection

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - Art on the Plaza

Art on the Plaza: Offering at the Gate with Nicole Salcedo – September 27 | 6 – 7:30 PM

Nicole Salcedo’s Art on the Plaza installation, Earth Gate, invites participants to cross into new realms of consciousness and community. Join Salcedo, along with artists Alexander Zastera and Agua Dulce, for a collective mandala-building experience. Bring an offering to contribute to the mandala, and capture the moment of connection with polaroid cameras provided by the museum. This event promises to be a spiritual and artistic journey, leaving behind a collective memory through art. Following the installation, stay for the iconic Jazz at MOCA series.

RSVP here.


JAZZ at MOCA: David Lucca Y Los Clásicos – September 27 | 8 PM

End your Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations with a night of vibrant music at Jazz at MOCA. Join us for a free outdoor concert, rain or shine, featuring David Lucca Y Los Clásicos. This concert is part of South Florida’s longest-running free outdoor jazz series, and it promises to be a memorable evening under the stars. Seating opens at 7 PM, and the museum galleries will remain open until 10 PM. Feel free to bring your own chairs and snacks for an evening of community, culture and jazz.

RSVP here.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at MOCA North Miami With a Full Calendar of Activities - JAZZ at Moca

Miami Carnival Season Kicks Off With Their Junior Carnival Celebrating Young People Showcasing Culture and Diversity.

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Photo via @TechYourPicture on IG

Annual Event Scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024, with Presenting Sponsor TD Bank Supporting Youth and Community Initiatives

Lauderhill, FL—The Miami Broward Junior Carnival will be held at Central Broward Regional Park on Saturday, October 5, 2024. This enriching cultural event is presented by TD Bank and hosted by Visit Lauderdale, City of Lauderhill. It showcases Caribbean culture and provides an excellent opportunity for youth to participate and develop their artistry. This year’s Junior Carnival reaffirms steadfast commitment to youth and community initiatives, reflecting the strength and unity of the community. The gates open at 1 pm, and the parade starts at 2 pm. To purchase tickets, visit miamijuniorcarnival.org.

The day features 10 junior masquerade bands competing for prizes and bragging rights, and Nikki Crosby (AKA Granny), actress, comedienne, and radio host, is the Emcee. The event will kick off with the Junior Steel Pan Competition and the Junior Calypso Competition. 

The day’s highlight will be the parade of 10 masquerade bands, each presenting their unique interpretation of Caribbean culture. This year’s competing bands include Break Awae Kru, China Mas Kids, D-Junction Mas Jr., Fun Generation Too, Karnival Kidz, La Familia, Major Players, Mas Dynasty/Party Room Squad, Natural Disasters, Royalty Kidz, Wassi Babes and Zing-Zing Kidzz.

The event also promises a rich display of cultural diversity, with performances ranging from American marching bands to the rhythmic beats of African-Afro drumming and Tassa drumming, native to the Caribbean. This diverse cultural tapestry fosters a sense of connection and appreciation for the different cultures, making you feel part of a global community. The excitement is building for audiences to see the Romeo Tasso Group.

The event continues to be a cornerstone of cultural inclusion and education. This annual event offers children from all backgrounds the opportunity to embrace and appreciate Caribbean heritage.

Tricia Baptiste, Junior Carnival Manager, emphasized the event’s importance: “Carnival is an integral part of Caribbean heritage. We are preserving this vibrant culture through Junior Carnival for future generations.” This family-centered event encourages young participants under 18 to showcase their talents, build meaningful connections, and express their appreciation for Caribbean heritage through music and movement, fostering a sense of connection and unity among the community.

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is excited to be a proud sponsor of the 2024 Miami Broward Junior Carnival. We are honored to serve the Caribbean community alongside this incredible non-profit organization, which works tirelessly to preserve and celebrate Caribbean culture. The Miami Broward Junior Carnival is vital in teaching our future leaders about the richness of Caribbean history and the importance of unity within the community. Be sure to visit the TD Bank tent for free face painting, games, and giveaways. We can’t wait to share the joy and excitement of this event with you and your families!

“Junior Carnival is one of my greatest joys; Visit Lauderdale is proud to be a sponsor once again of all the Carnival events at Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill.” Celebrating the Caribbean American Community in Broward County aligns with our mission to be a welcoming destination for “Everyone under the sun,” stated Neki Mohan-Vice President, Multi-Cultural Business & Community Engagement.

“Our Junior Carnival helps preserve Caribbean culture and provides a platform for children to understand and appreciate artistry in a unique format while building a strong sense of community. We look forward to celebrating the future of the Miami Carnival with our young people, states Joan Hinkson Justin, Chair of Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee.

The Miami Broward Junior Carnival is a focal point for Caribbean families and those interested in Caribbean culture. Mirroring the adult Miami Carnival, the Junior Carnival is a festival of vibrant music, culture, colors, and food from the Caribbean. The event invites attendees to delve deeper into the true meaning of Carnival and its importance within Caribbean culture.

Miami Junior Carnival is more than fun and festivities; it is a gateway to understanding Carnival’s rich history, music, and cultural significance, particularly for children of Caribbean descent and Caribbean Americans. The upcoming Carnival promises to blend these elements, creating an enriching and educational experience that will leave families and friends of all cultural backgrounds feeling enlightened and inspired, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Caribbean culture.

The community, especially the youth, is invited to this unique celebration. It’s a fun and educational opportunity to explore and deepen one’s understanding of Caribbean history and heritage.

For more information, visit the Junior Carnival website.https://miamijuniorcarnival.org/.

Harris and Trump Face Off: 5 Key Issues Shaping the 2024 Presidential Race

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If you haven’t been keeping up with politics, Kamala Harris officially launched her 2024 presidential campaign after Joe Biden withdrew his bid for re-election and endorsed her in July 2024. She became the official Democratic Party nominee on August 5, 2024, following a five-day virtual roll call vote and selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate shortly after. Former president Donald Trump is the official Republican Party nominee, alongside running mate JD Vance.

So far, Harris’s campaign has focused on domestic issues similar to Biden’s previous campaign messaging, promoting policies such as abortion rights, LGBTQ+ protections, gun control, climate change action, and federal cannabis legalization — a tricky subject following her previous career as the DA of San Francisco prosecuting marijuana charges. She has also highlighted economic reforms, including a ban on grocery price gouging and capping prescription drug prices. In foreign policy, Harris advocates for continued military support to Ukraine and Israel.

Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign continues to focus on key themes including his economic agenda, focusing on reducing inflation, decreasing immigration and reviving U.S. manufacturing. He has also proposed lowering taxes on businesses and criticized the Biden administration’s economic policies. Unfortunately for him, his ongoing legal challenges, including 34 felony convictions, often take his spotlight. As of now, he remains focused on swing states ahead of his upcoming debate with Kamala Harris.

One of the striking differences between their campaigning so far is Harris’ significant successes with fundraising. Harris raised $361 million in August 2024, surpassing Donald Trump’s campaign contributions.  Reports state that Trump has raised around $130 million in August, with his highest contribution count coming in after his guilty verdict at the end of May, amounting to $170 million for the month.

A key moment will be the debate between Harris and Trump on September 10, 2024​ at Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center, which will be her first time debating the former president. 

Here are five policies we expect will be discussed:

1. Economics

Harris: Proposes economic reforms, including raising the minimum wage, taxing corporations and improving small businesses. 

Trump: Focuses on cutting taxes permanently, cutting energy prices, revitalizing U.S. manufacturing and, interestingly, creating a new government efficiency agency, headed by tech billionaire Elon Musk.

2. Abortion

Harris: A staunch defender of reproductive rights, Harris has made clear that if elected, she would work to codify Roe v. Wade into law. She has been one of the administration’s leading voices on this issue since the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision overturning Roe. 

Trump: His rhetoric on reproductive rights has swayed throughout his former presidency and current campaigning. While he has proudly declared that through his Supreme Court appointments he’s responsible for the overturning of Roe vs. Wade, he recently declared his opposition to a ballot measure that would enshrine abortion rights in the Florida Constitution. Additionally, Trump has pledged to ensure that either health insurance companies or the government provide in vitro fertilization (IVF) at no cost.

3. Guns

Harris: Calls for further gun control reforms, including background checks and an assault weapons ban. 

Trump: Defends gun rights, opposing restrictions and emphasizing Second Amendment protections. JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, is under fire for describing the recent shooting at a high school in Georgia as a “fact of life.” He believes in increasing security at schools rather than limiting gun ownership. Harris’ campaign fired back, with running mate Governor Tim Walz calling him “pathetic,” continuing with “we can’t quit on our kids.”

4. Foreign Support

Harris: Backs military aid to Ukraine and Israel. She has faced recent criticism from some Democrats for her stance on Israel, with detractors arguing that her support for the country shows a lack of empathy toward the suffering in Gaza. Many believe her reluctance to push for a ceasefire with Biden has diminished the early optimism surrounding her campaign. 

Trump: Remains rather silent about the topic, though rumors are swirling that he also supports Israel. At a high level, he focuses on prioritizing U.S. interests first. 

5. Military Presence

Harris: Supports diplomatic solutions and strategic alliances like NATO but emphasizes military support for Israel and Ukraine. 

Trump: Advocates for reducing U.S. foreign entanglements, focusing more on domestic defense.

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