ORGANIZER: Daniel García Ordaz
CONTACT: poetmariachi@hotmail.com
Artists and writers from the Rio Grande Valley of deep S. Texas will once again be part of the global chain of events linking us together with compatriots across the world to shine the light on local problems and situations–in this case mental health. The event, 100 Thousand Poets For Change, will take place on Sat., Sept. 28 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Luna Coffee House (113 W. Nolana Ave.) The event will be free, but donations will be accepted by participating organizations.
This year’s focus for the RGV will be on mental health awareness. Readers, musicians, poets, and other speakers will be signing up to present their message of hope and healing to those dealing with mental health issues and to bring to light problems, injustices, and solutions to the issue of mental health in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.
“Mental health is a silent epidemic and truly a silent killer that stalks victims and their families, quietly stalking them at their jobs, in their homes, in both quiet and mild as well as loud, violent, and wild ways,” said local writer and organizer of the event, Daniel García Ordaz. “Mental health affects the victims, the patients, and their famillies like no other health problem because of the taboo associated with the diseases and situations, the lack of funding for research and treatment, and the dearth of personnel trained to assist in such matters.”
“Mental health is a thick, heavy, parti-colored blanket that covers so many aspects of our lives, including not only health matters but also legal, civil, safety, and financial ones that often feed off each other to create perfect storms that can destroy homes and marriages and leave families broke and broken,” said García, a teacher at La Joya Early College High School. “The more people try to hide it, the larger the explosion and ramifications.”
García applauded Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott for recently signed legislation requiring school districts to teach students about mental health, but points out that poor mental health management is a condition that can negatively affect communities like no other.
A few information tables will also be set up as we invite local mental health services to share details about their services. Anyone wishing to participate may contact Daniel García Ordaz at poetmariachi@gmail.com.
100 Thousand Poets for Change, or 100TPC, is an international grassroots educational organization focusing on the arts, especially poetry, music, and the literary arts. It was founded in 2011 by Michael Rothenberg and Terri Carrion, and focuses on a worldwide event each September.