Collaborating with the Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno in October

On October 9, 2017, YMP joined with members of Fresno's Muslim community from the Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno, with thanks to Director, Reza Nekumanesh. Together, we built cross-cultural understanding and awareness through dialogue, creative writing, and visual arts exercises centered around the theme of “myths, heroes, and folktales of the future.” The gathering closed with the creation of superhero characters, prompted by questions such as, “What does courage in your community look like?” and “What kind of superhero/heroine does your community need now?” From a feminist samurai heroine, to the “Magnificent Muslimah,” participants allowed themselves to be playful and brave, calling forth the imaginative energy that fuels hope, healing, and a deeper awareness of the struggles affecting fellow citizens