For some the sea is a symbol of freedom, a fun time, or a vacation. For others, its rhythm is a meditation, and its view is a balm. And for still others, it is their livelihood, their source of food, and mode of transportation. Throughout history, the waters of the seas and rivers have been the necessary element for civilization. It is virtually impossible to separate the history of humankind from the water. As Leonardo de Vinci said, “Water is the driving force of all nature.”
The balance of nature and people’s relationship to water is changing as scientists continue to document the effects of climate change and the rising seas that accompany it. Rhythmix Cultural Works’ partnership with various environmental agencies, artists, and musicians provided a series of events this summer to raise awareness of the effects of climate change on sea levels. These events, Rising Seas, focused on how rising sea levels affect our shorelines and communities. Through skits, music, dance, and speakers, the events not only informed the crowds about the dangers of climate change, but also offered ideas and opportunities to engage in meaningful change. The culminating event was held Saturday, August 23, at Bohol Circle Immigrant Park.
The event kicked off with a guest speaker, Matthew David, Chief Public Engagement Officer for the Port of Oakland. His opening remarks were followed by the skit, Climate Detective From the Future, written by Ed Holmes and directed by Jeff Raz. The play featured two actors, Ed Holmes and Colin Epstein. Costumes were designed by Maria Chenut and live sound effects were provided by Janet Koike. Ed Holmes as the climate detective travels back in time to document the relationship between people and water, especially noting actions that have had a negative impact as well as stewards of the environment who have helped. As with previous events, the skit was translated live by ASL interpreter, Shonnese Grant.
The skit was followed by the musical group Manilatown Ancestral Ensemble. This group combines tribal Philippine polyrhythmic percussion with song and dance to tell stories about the effects of and solutions to climate change from an indigenous perspective. The raised circular stage allowed visitors to get an up-close look at the various instruments and performers. Manilatown Ancestral Ensemble members are Caroline Cabading, Jibril Alvarex, Raymond Bambao, Anthony Daquipa, Manuel Dragon, Daniel Giray, Lisa Lord, and Camille Santana.
In addition to the live entertainment, attendees could visit a variety of booths for games, interactive information, and craft opportunities. They could write out the things they do to help the environment on strips of cloth that were tied along a rope to create a wave of change at the Climate Action Wave booth. Community Action for a Sustainable Alameda (CASA) collected data on sensitive areas in Alameda as well as spots that residents consider special and in need of protection. Citizens Climate Lobby offered visitors a chance to spin a wheel to select a topic category. If they could answer the corresponding question about the environment, they could win a sticker. Alameda resident Colette proudly displayed her sticker on her bike helmet. Volunteers from Rhythmix also provided craft booths where guests could decorate paper shells with stencils or design their own climate action flags. Alameda resident Sehreen chose a seahorse for her seashell art.
With the sun shining overhead and a gentle breeze blowing, the day was perfect for gathering alongside the water. Woodstock, the Oakland Alameda water shuttle, brought a continuous stream of new visitors over from Jack London Square, and Rhythmix wrapped up its summer of Rising Seas events. From political action to everyday habits, Rising Seas has provided action items to contribute to real change that can be done by people of all ages to help protect the shoreline of Alameda and all that it provides for our community.
Kelly Rogers Flynt contributes reviews of theatrical productions and feature articles to the Alameda Post. Reach her via [email protected]. Her writing is collected at AlamedaPost.com/Kelly-Rogers-Flynt.
