Leaders Broadening Textual Lineage
Connecting with traditions of the past. Diversifying education for the present. Advocating for children of the future.
Throughout history, art has been used to influence, inspire, amplify voices of the systematically oppressed, in organizing, in advocating, in building movements, and in retaining suppressed history.
Research, however, shows that “the current model of education in the United States is stifling the creative soul of our children” despite arguments from youth, parents, community members, educators, and change makers that “creativity now is as important in education as literacy.” LBTL is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization built on the powerful nuance of art and activism, and by illuminating children’s lineal connections to trailblazers throughout history, we spark an awareness of the value of their creativity.
At LBTL, youth, staff, and volunteers are encouraged to use their creative spirits to transform the world.
In 2020, Texas saw more than 40 percent of eligible voters between 18 and 29 cast a ballot. As their election impact grows, we must make sure children’s educational experiences include as many historical representations of civic engagement as possible to foster a collaborative view of societal change.
Our teaching artists work with High School students to create and perform original works of shadow theatre that depict trailblazers and instances of civil unrest from cultural backgrounds synonymous with their student population.
The resulting shadow theatre experiences are then performed for Elementary School students. Storytellers are guided by our teaching artists to draw from students’ imaginations, lineages, favorite historical figures, and/or learning objectives and utilize storytelling as a mighty tool to inspire the younger generation to advocate for not only their own futures, but the futures of generations to come.
LBTL strives to empower families to create meaningful connections within their communities to build environments where unity, support, and proactiveness flourish.
By partnering with local businesses, cultural and heritage societies, nonprofit organizations, teachers, and youth organizations, LBTL organizes community events to celebrate holidays and festivals from around the world, civic participation, healing and, most importantly, our youth.
We not only share how community members can contact Texas SBOE (State Board of Education) members regarding revisions made to curriculum (particularly the ongoing social studies curriculum revisions) and connect with city leaders to address the detrimental effects policies are having on their communities, but LBTL also registers eligible voters during community events.
“The play's the thing wherein I'll catch the conscience of the king.”
— William Shakespeare, Hamlet