With support from the California Arts Council, the SCHOOL OF ARTS AND CULTURE AT MHP will produce “The Race for Free Spirit: A 50-Year Uprising”, a multimedia production of artists Roy and PJ Hirabayashi. The production highlights their 50-year history of finding a Japanese American cultural voice through taiko, and the struggles over equity, visibility, social justice, community, and place-making through the arts. These themes will be woven together with dialogue, PJ and Roy’s original compositions, and video/photo collages. They will include the rich tapestry of music, dance, song, and visuals documenting their role in shaping the Japanese American identity. “The Race for Free Spirit…” alerts awareness to what is at risk if the widespread growth of taiko erases its historical roots in the Japanese American community.
SOAC expects to serve 100,000 people through:
Cultural district exploration and property ownership that will respond to the threat of displacement and culture erasure in East San José and help create tangible opportunities for residents to stay. A California Cultural District designation will fuel the economy; preserve local cultures, traditions, and identities; and shift decision-making power in the neighborhood. SOAC has acquired 1785 Alum Rock Avenue – a building across the street from La Plaza that will serve as a cornerstone of the cultural district.
Placekeeping activations that foster a culturally resilient community through signature events, including: Chile, Mole, Pozole, a celebration of Mexican Independence Day; Avenida De Altares, a celebration of Dia de los Muertos; Fiesta Navideña, a celebration for the Mayfair area of East San José; and Fiesta Del Mariachi, which educates about Mariachi music.
Los Mercaditos Hunger Relief Program, which addresses the basic needs of its hard-hit community, leading them towards an equitable recovery. Los Mercaditos are structured like farmers markets with access to fresh, healthy food to help families make healthy choices and lower their risk of diet-related disease.
The Multicultural Arts Leadership Institute, a professional development opportunity for leaders of color in the arts, culture, and entertainment sectors, empowers arts practitioners from historically marginalized backgrounds with technical skills, philosophical foundations, and networking.
The Community Engagement Program, which provides artists, multicultural institutions, and community-based agencies access to La Plaza to present programming that celebrates the local community’s diversity.
The Arts Education Program, which enhances the education of children, youth, and adults through culturally specific arts engagement activities. The AEP will engage students via its Summer Camp, Year-Round Program, and Signature Event Workshops.

