This is Rama Blueprints Podcast's 5th live discussion live in their Tres Generacíones/Three Voices series from the Brava Women for the Arts Theater Cabaret in San Francisco's Mission District. This episode, From Invisibility to Visibility: The Rise of the Vasa People of SF, highlights the journey of the Pacific Islander Vasa community towards visibility and empowerment. Key community leaders, including activists, social workers, and educators, share their stories and strategies in tackling systemic underrepresentation and disparities in housing, education, and health. The conversation, moderated by Socorro Gamboa, delves into the historical and socio-political contexts that have shaped the Pacific Islander community's resilience and achievements. From the establishment of the first Pacific Islander nonprofit in 1972 to the creation of the Pacific Islander Cultural District, the episode honors the ongoing efforts and successes of this vibrant community. Hear firsthand experiences from esteemed panelists who reveal the challenges and triumphs of advocating for their people and envisioning a future where equity and visibility are realized for all generations. This conversation is a tribute to the ancestors and a call to action for continued solidarity and support.

Be part of history and join the live podcast which includes a lively conversation between 3 local community leaders who have built a vision and future for the Pacific Islander community.

The Tres Generaciones/3 Voices live podcast series at Brava Cabaret features 3 guests from diverse communities and generations throughout San Francisco. The panelist consists of community leaders who have experience working towards building community through activism, art, community organizing and empowerment.

Always framed through the Principles of RAP, the discussion will seek solutions and future action steps that will hopefully build upon the findings of previous discussions to elevate the level of discussion and details for future action steps and conversations.

Founded in 2021, RAMA Blueprints is the 1st podcast documenting the history of the Real Alternatives Program (RAP) within the City and County of San Francisco between 1967 - 2003 along with its current impact on community empowerment in San Francisco and the country.

Please join us for this exciting event that will celebrate SF's Pacific Islander community, RAMA Blueprints Podcast.

This episode was produced and edited by Darren J. de Leon and Socorro Gamboa.

En este episodio del podcast, conversamos con el Sr. Ricardo Calderón, uno de los fundadores de CARECEN, una organización clave para la comunidad inmigrante en San Francisco. Ricardo nos cuenta su llegada a los Estados Unidos hace 39 años y su exilio forzado desde El Salvador. Nos habla sobre la creación de CARECEN en San Francisco, las necesidades prioritarias de la comunidad inmigrante y cómo han abordado temas como el trabajo, la educación, la vivienda y la inmigración.

Ricardo describe el apoyo de diversas organizaciones y personalidades, incluyendo a César Chávez y Dolores Huerta, así como la cooperación con grupos religiosos y comunitarios. Detalla su trayectoria dentro de CARECEN, desde el trabajo inicial orientado a los asilos hasta la expansión de servicios legales y humanitarios.

Además, discute las similitudes entre las necesidades de los inmigrantes de los años 80 y las de hoy, enfatizando que muchas de las condiciones y problemáticas se mantienen vigentes. La entrevista, platica concluye con reflexiones personales de Señor Calderón sobre su trayectoria, el crecimiento de CARECEN y su dedicación continua a la causa inmigrante. ¡No te pierdas esta interesante y emotiva conversación!

In this eXtra Commentary, we delve deep into the creation and intentions behind 'The Last Harvest' episode. Join CARECEN SF's Juan Rivera as he interviews co-producers Darren J. de Leon and Socorro Gamboa about the making of this pivotal episode. Discover the rich history and impactful legacy of the Real Alternatives Program (RAP), a revolutionary community initiative born in San Francisco's Mission District. This episode sheds light on the rise and fall of RAP, the significance of Mitch Salazar's leadership, and the program's lasting influence on community-based youth empowerment. Hear firsthand accounts, heartfelt discussions, and insightful reflections on how RAP transformed countless lives and continued to inspire new generations.

Please consider donating to the RAMA Blueprints at the CARECENSF.org website.This eXtra was produced by Darren J. de Leon and Socorro Gamboa.

Principle people:

Juan Rivera, Interviewer

Darren J. de Leon, co-producer

Socorro Gamboa, co-producer