Living Under the Trees
A Photo Exhibit of Indigenous Mexican Farmworkers in California
Q&A with exhibiting photographer David Bacon
Comments by local indigenous community leaders
Refreshments

October 29, 2009
6:30-8:30

Institute of the Americas
University of California, San Diego campus
La Jolla, California  Directions
The event is free, but registrations are requested

The exhibit is composed of a series of powerful photographs, new works by award-winning journalist and documentary photographer David Bacon and moving narratives that explore the unique challenges facing California’s indigenous Mexican communities. It documents the consequences of economic dislocation from Mexico and the challenges these dislocated communities face in California.

But the exhibit also celebrates the culture and community spirit that sustains these migrants who are agents of change, questioning unfair work conditions, working for better housing and making critical decisions about their community.

Estimates indicate that over half of California’s farm worker population is comprised of Mexican migrants.  Speaking several languages other than Spanish, these communities of Mixteco, Triqui, Zapoteco, Chatino, and Purepecha remain marginalized and with limited access to safe, affordable housing and social services.

Barro Sin Plomo (Clay without Lead) Exhibit and Sale of Lead Free Pottery

November 5, 2009
6:00 p.m. – 8:30 pm

Victor Aguila Sanchez, founding director of Barro Sin Plomo, anthropologist and master trainer in lead-free techniques will be joined by Anna O’Leary, director of Barro Sin Plomo U.S.A., and Francisco Pinedo, CEO of Cisco Brothers, in a presentation on pioneering lead-free glazing techniques that enable artisans to continue to produce distinctive Mexican ceramic pottery without poisoning themselves or their children.

Mexican potters have used lead to glaze pottery for centuries. Tragically, potters and their children chronically inhale and ingest dangerously high quantities of lead. These ceramic pottery workshops are home-based and the glazing occurs where children reside and where their food is often prepared.  This practice has had a devastating impact on family health, the environment, and Mexico’s local and national economies.

Pottery will be sold and refreshments served after the presentation.

Info: www.iamericas.org