p:ear Youth Sings about an Educational Revolution

PORTLAND, Oregon – Thursday, June 9^th 2011 – The 4^th of July celebrates the independence our nation achieved through revolution. On July 4^th, 2011, at 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the p:ear headquarters on 338 NW 6th Ave, p:ear youth Kayla Stone, recipient of the city sponsored Youth Action Grant, invites you to join her and several other performers for a free music, food and poetry event to share in the celebration of a revolution she sees just as imperative to our nation’s success: an educational revolution.

The Problem

As a result of the budget crisis, funding for educational programs that Kayla loved was cut. “All of a sudden we weren’t going on field trips”. However, unlike many that see such cuts, complain about the cuts and do nothing, Kayla was motivated. “You can’t just bitch and not do something”. What Kayla discovered was that there are many resources for people that are willing to work a little. “Students need to know about the grants that are available to sustain their schools and fine arts programs”. Unusually resourceful, Kayla attended grant-writing classes, applied and was awarded the Youth Action Grant to make Multnomah County a better place to live.

Kayla’s Quest

With this grant seed money in hand, Kayla has set out on a most noble quest; to educate others and bring them together to fix and save what she sees as incredibly important; an educational system that builds upon synergies, increases awareness, and promotes the work of inspirational teachers. On July 4^th Kayla is celebrating the kick-off of her mission to bring many educators and students together. “We are barely brushing shoulders with one another,” says Kayla. As a result she feels we are all working on our own little projects and programs instead of looking outward to see how we can all work together. “Building an ant hill happens quickly because they (the ants) are all working together”. Kayla’s big dream has garnered attention from some big names; Caffé Vita, Outside In, KBOO Radio, and New Avenues for Youth are all participating in her event on the 4^th.

The Party

Kayla, quoting Emma Coleman said “You can’t have a revolution you can’t dance to” and so on July 4^th, the band Lady Liberty – of which Kayla is a member – will be performing. Youth from Guerilla Theatre, a peer education program based at Outside In, will unveil a mural that will be on display at Outside In’s clinic. Aztec dancers will also present as a reminder of our heritage. But it isn’t a party without food, particularly on the 4^th of July so at this free event attendees can expect complimentary BBQ and non-alcoholic beverages. Be warned though, everyone is expected to mix and mingle and determine how they can do their part to build a more sustainable and inspiring educational system. Talk about a revolution.

Event Specifics

The Educational Revolution will occur on Monday, July 4^th at 6:00 pm at the p:ear headquarters located at 338 NW 6th Ave. Food and beverages are complimentary and the public is invited.