Collaborators

Mateo Ozelotzin-Hernandez -Facilitator - Director - Father

Mateo's work targets a broad spectrum of our society. Focusing on teaching his participants how to unpack social injustices, by applying a trifecta synthesis of the three include: Teatro Dignidad, Indigeneity, and mindfulness, which enables people to take action for a world that is more socially just and environmentally sustainable.

Biography: Mateo's maternal lineage can be traced to the native Mazahua (jñatrjo) of El Oro, in the State of Mexico. After working with various Indigenous elders and maestros of theater, Mateo has learned how to successfully Incorporate the concept "The process is the journey" into his workshops, an idea that has deep roots in Indigenous thought. Mateo has directed various theater productions, collaborated with human rights organizations and indigenous wellness centers, as well as, worked with private and non-profit organizations.

Last but not least, Mateo also designed and facilitated " Sacred Breath”, more commonly known as talking circles. Where men from all walks of life, such as formerly incarcerated lifers to young men, come to learn tools on how to be the best version of themselves. What makes Mateo's 18 plus years of facilitation different than others? Mateo is comfortable engaging participants in unraveling the layers of social privilege, helping participants give light to indigenous preservation and expression.

Attending a workshop will consist of experiencing a few different styles of theater. One, the audience will be transformed into active participants. Two, they will learn how to use theater as an action tool to identify and process social injustice. Most importantly, the participant will attain strategies that will help improve mindfulness, develop confidence, and self-preservation, resolve conflict, and address intergenerational trauma. To be an audience member in one of Mateo's workshops implies living the concept, "The process is the journey."

@mozelotzin = Instagram

Jeffery Martin - Poet - Performer - Husband - Father

Jeffery Martin, a visionary poet and activist, channels the power of words to ignite a brighter and more equitable world. From a creative manager's perspective, he is not merely an artist but a catalyst for positive change. As the co-founder of the now-venerated B.E.H.O.L.D Theatre, his impact on inner-city youth in Rochester, New York, transcends conventional boundaries.

Within the walls of B.E.H.O.L.D Theatre, Jeffery orchestrated a symphony of empowerment, introducing young minds to the poetry of life. Through an eclectic curriculum spanning martial arts, fencing, ballet, African dance, tightrope walking, public speaking, piano, and clowning, he nurtured budding artists and leaders. From the rhythm of African drums to the grace of a ballet pirouette, he sculpted diverse talents, unveiling the potential hidden within each student.

In his creative manager's role, Jeffery understands that the arts, with poetry as their guiding star, are the lifeblood of thriving and forward-thinking communities. His commitment to fostering creativity and expression knows no bounds. With twelve published books, he weaves his wisdom and insights into the fabric of society, inviting readers to embrace a more profound understanding of the human experience.

Jeffery Martin's impact extends beyond the printed page. As he addresses middle and high school students, his words are a beacon of inspiration, encouraging young minds to explore the vast landscapes of their own potential. His creative journey has evolved, and he now ventures into the cinematic realm, co-authoring his first film script, a testament to his boundless creativity.

Adding to his dynamic portfolio, Jeffery also hosts Instagram Live feeds with Giovanni Perez on the Voices of Sun Instagram, further expanding his reach as a beacon of inspiration and change in the digital age. Through this platform, he continues to share his poetic vision and commitment to a more equitable world with a global audience.

Joe Galarza - Facilitator - Muralist - Father

My name is Joe Galarza; I am a Xica-indio visual artist and musician. My goals as an artist are to preserve and share the culture of indigenous peoples of the so-called Americas. Through my artwork, I strive to document cultural history known to most as mythology, recording of migrations, and the worldview that our oral histories as native peoples have preserved. Living within an urban reality my intent is to pose questions through my artwork to address urban social issues within a global age of poverty, oppression, war…

I work in community centers and correctional facilities with youth and strive to bring resources through the arts that can serve as an alternative. Overall, I view my goal as an artist to use art as a tool to empower the community; as an educational tool. I grew up in El Sereno, an area of Los Angeles surrounded by gang violence and with much self-hate. It seems without awareness of history we cannot grow individually or as a community. Knowing the past we can have a foundation for the future bringing perspective, knowledge, and self-pride. By showing that I came from the same place that youth are struggling with, my goal is to share with them that they can change and endeavor toward self-determination for a better future despite any odds they face.

I am currently working on a one-man exhibit to show the spectrum of my work called “Iconoclasm.” This page is dedicated to my visual creations though I am also part of the music group AZTLAN UNDERGROUND since 1995. I am also part of the creative partnership Genetic Wind songs. We do murals, commission work, workshops in painting and drawing, sculptural work in wood, paper mache, and clay.

@geneticwindsongs = Instagram