Exploring the Power of Music in Advocacy and Healing

When: Thursday, August 14 - 12:00 PM

Duration: 1 hours

Location: Zoom

Event Details:

Music has long been a powerful force for social change, uniting people and fueling movements across generations. Its ability to inspire, heal, and connect communities makes it an invaluable tool in youth peer advocacy—empowering young people to reach their full potential in all areas of life. In this training, we’ll explore how music shapes our mood and energy. We’ll discuss music therapy, a widely recognized approach for promoting mental health and supporting addiction recovery, illustrating how sound can serve as a tool for emotional healing and self expression.
We’ll also examine how music fosters community—different styles of music allow us to share and celebrate diverse cultures, while enhancing focus and cultivating a positive work environment. Finally, we’ll dive into artivism—the fusion of art and activism—where music, visual art, and creative expression become powerful forces for social justice. By the end of this training, you’ll have a deeper understanding of music’s impact on personal and community well-being, along with practical tools to harness its power for connection, expression, and positive change.

                                                                About the Presenter

                                                Amani Garcia – Youth Peer Advocate, Artivist

Born to Garifuna parents, my heritage is grounded in resilience, community, and the power of expression. Growing up in Harlem, I was surrounded by a vibrant culture of art, activism, and history, all of which shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for social justice. The streets of Harlem, rich with creative energy and activism, became the foundation of my journey as an artivist—a journey that began at just 12 years old. Through a partnership with Black Panther alumni from Columbia University, IMPACT Repertory Theatre was founded, sparking my commitment to performance as a tool for social change. This transformative space provided me with a platform to amplify marginalized voices, spark meaningful dialogue, and inspire collective action. Theater became my medium to merge my cultural roots with a strong dedication to activism, whether on stage or in the community. Today, my work is rooted in my belief that art has the power to heal, connect, and challenge
societal norms. As a community organizer for WEGOTUSNOW, an initiative raising awareness about the impact of parental incarceration on children, and as the former president of the BLM Youth Coalition, I continue to channel my energy into creating spaces where young people can discover their potential for positive change. Whether through performance, education, or advocacy, I am committed to uplifting my community and using art as a catalyst for justice.