Privilege vs Change at District 319

Vancouver’s technologists, social change activists and concerned citizens witnessed a superb presentation by Web of Changer Favianna Rodriguez last night at District 319 for our 2009 Kick Off event. Highlighting her first hand experience in social entrepreneurship, activism, tech, and the arts, Favi gave a compelling speech that challenged everyone in attendance to take a hard look at prevailing attitudes on equality and see new ways to take down barriers in their own lives and work.

Titled “Designing for Democracy”, Favianna’s hour long multimedia presentation demonstrated the ways she’s used her artistic skills and web savvy to take on the issues of globalization, green economy, immigration and race. But while the range of issues was diverse, the core message of ‘privilege’ united the various subjects with a clear call to action. Success and power always carries the risk of alienating and marginalizing other individuals or groups, and ultimately it’s the responsibility of each us of us to be aware of the role played by privilege and to take action in the community, and our own lives, to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity for happiness.

Each issue was expertly illustrated by Favianna’s posters, visual art, and websites – skills that have featured prominently in her work as both an activist and an entrepreneur. In addition to running the successful web agency Tumis, that works for social justice clients and trains young people of colour to work in technology, Favianna is also the co-founder of Oakland’s Eastside Arts Alliance, an open community arts and media space in downtown Oakland, where Tumis is the main paying tenant, subsidizing the center's programs. And what are you doing with your business to support community?

If you were at last night’s events, be sure to comment with your photos or thoughts or tweet them to #WOC09. Those who missed Favianna have another chance to experience her energy and compelling ideas. She’ll be presenting at the Great Northern Way Campus Hanger tonight, and again on Sunday at the W2 Launch Pad. See below for more details:

Techforms - Friday, March 6:
Favianna will also present a digital video installation at the Great Northern Way Campus Hangar. www.creativetechnology.org

Sista’hood Celebration - Sunday, March 8, 2pm:
Hear more from Favianna at her Art, Resistance and Community Transformation public workshop March 8 at W2 Launch Pad (116 W Hastings) www.sistahoodcelebration.com eastsideartsalliance.com

This was a great kick off event to what promises to be an exciting year for Web of Change!