Tribute to the Romero Troupe and a Few Righteous Babes

"What does it mean to be American in a Nation of immigrants? In "Speak American?" we'll put a human face on this highly explosive subject, exploring the history, mythology, and fear that suffocates real dialogue. We will marry a fictional tale about the frustrations of native-born Americans with a series of real-life monologues written and directed by immigrants themselves."

Last night I attended a play that the theater group, the Romero Troupe and Dignity through Dialogue and Education presented. The Romero Troupe states their cause via their tag line: "Social Justice Through Organic Theater". Jim Walsh, a history professor at CU Denver, is the group founder and also acts in his own productions. And, DDE's mission statement is as follows:

"To gather and disseminate accurate information and to foster open dialogue on issues related to immigration"

"To be a conduit for the empowered immigrant voice"

My friend's Megan and Macy are involved with the group and I have witnessed both of them make huge sacrifices the past couple of months in preparation for this production. Macy was a student of Walsh's while attending CU and has been a supporter of his cause throughout. Megan, who is also a close friend to Macy, appreciated the opportunity to speak to people on important issues through theater and joined the group.

The dialogue touched my heart and addresses a very pressing and relevant issue. The actors were able to pin point common opinion and beliefs regarding immigrant rights, as well as portray the potential plight of an immigrant. Unfortunately, I was unable to stay for the group questioning that was presented by the audience after the play ended, but I am sure the Romero Troupe did a fantastic job with their educated answers.

Macy and Megan, I would just like to say that I am proud to know the two of you. You make the majority of us want to be better people. For those you have yet to effect... I say, keep on keepin' it real. One day, we will allow our tiny minds to expand and we will want to be educated on the real issue rather than give into the 'popular belief'. Some of our peers, sadly enough, would rather not hear the truth. I for one, will continue to make an effort to become more involved and whatever I can do to aid in your progress, I will.

You deserved more than just a round of applause last night.

I love you both!

Please visit the following websites for upcoming events and more info:

www.romerotroupe.org

www.dignityde.org

Excerpt from the Velveteen Rabbit

A conversation between The Skin Horse and the Rabbit.
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"What is REAL?" asked the Rabbit one day, when they were lying side by side near the nursery fender, before Nana came to tidy the room. "Does it mean having things that buzz inside you and a stick-out handle?"
"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real."
"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.
"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "When you are Real you don't mind being hurt."
"Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"
"It doesn't happen all at once," said the Skin Horse. "You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand."
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*sighs, smiles*