As our Tampa Bay communities emerge from the impacts of hurricanes Helene and Milton, many are struggling to regain stability and find a path toward recovery. And while storms, wind and water are not bounded by demographics, recovery often reflects social inequities and health disparities. While rebuilding homes and lives are a priority, can the arts help us explore the trauma of these events and contribute to healing?
Art, Health and Social Justice will explore ideas about the intersection between the arts and equity and consider innovative partnerships between artists and activists. The program is updated to also consider the potential benefits of creative expression as the community navigates recovery.

The program will include a presentation of original poems by Walter “Wally B.” Jennings, Thomas Hallock, Miesha Brundridge, Keesha Brundridge and Gloria Muñoz. The poems, presented as short films created by Polita Glynn and Devin Rice, address issues of loss, displacement, community and altered waterways.

The screening will be followed by a discussion with the artists, arts funders and community changemakers