The Power of Art to Make Positive Change in Youths

Example of applying talking stick in community meetings

Ventura Star, May 17, 2009

Last Sunday, May 3rd, I attended the best youth led community gathering I have ever experienced in Oxnard.  Over 100 people of all ages and cultures responded to the opportunity to contribute their ideas for a new mural to be painted in South Oxnard.   This event was organized by Arts for Action, an organization seeking to involve youth and their families in using art to improve personal and community life.

I initially dropped by to deliver material requested by my daughter who was volunteering. On this beautiful afternoon, I was surprised to see within the Rodeo Community Center youth, parents, grandparents, and over a dozen members of a motorcycle club called the Rough Riders.  I decided to stay, participate and find out why these people were attending.

Our Human Evolution

Short Address by Roberto Vargas to San Francisco Library Patrons upon being recognized as a Bay Area Author Laureate

Thank your for your presence this evening and the support of the SF Public Library.

I’d like to share a few thoughts about evolution—human, cultural and social evolution, however I first need your assistance set the context.

My question to you, for which I’d like some short responses, what type of society or world do you want?  Using a word or phrase describe our vision of the world we desire. Audience response:  healthy, understanding, ethical, inclusive, respect, peace, sustainability, people can earn a living, without hunger, with libraries…