For Hispanic Heritage Month, GreenRoom Exchange* organized a concert honoring Latino contributions to Central Kentucky. The Villalobos Brothers from Veracruz, Mexico presented a rousing, exceptionally impressive show highlighting their cultural traditions. Every one present was moved and captivated.
The fear of deportation is ever present here. Luis Villalobos reminded us of one of the questions to be a US Citizen (which he is). What is a reason people immigrated to this country? To escape taxation without representation. In 2022, undocumented immigrants, who cannot vote, paid $96.7 billion in a combination of federal, state, and local taxes. It’s humbling to consider.
Here are some of the gifts we receive by honoring other cultures.
PEOPLE ARE CHARMING, LOVING AND APPRECIATIVE
Through GreenRoom Exchange, Lee and I have hosted artists from Ghana, Senegal, Cuba, Haiti, Argentina, Venezuela, Mali, Spain, Japan, India and now Mexico. Across the board we have met the most delightful, interesting and loving people. Their gratitude and appreciation for the attention we give them and their culture is our reward.
LEARN ABOUT THE RICHNESS OF OTHER CULTURES
Music is a universal language that helps us appreciate one another in new and meaningful ways. I’m humbled by the rich traditions of other cultures. We have learned of the dedication and extensive training it takes to be an exceptional artist. The KODO drummers from Japan study intensely for 2 years before they can play. The 3 Villalobos Brothers have several master’s degrees in violin and music to highlight their dazzling music. Kora player, Yacouba Sissoko, is from a Griot family in Mali, the music passed down generationally like a cultural language.
CHALLENGES STEREOTYPES
One of our organization’s core messages is that “we are more alike than different.” By befriending artists from around the world, we discover that laughter, love, and the joy of living are experiences we all share. Seek out opportunities to connect with people from other cultures—it’s a powerful reminder that immigrants have played a vital role in making our country great.
Reach out if you’d like to talk about this.
Pictures: The Villalobos Brothers from Veracruz Mexico played a concert at the Lexington Opera House on 9-21-25. They were as impressive and delightful to be with as is their music.
To learn more about our non-profit, GreenRoom Exchange, which creates cross cultural experiences through music and the arts go to https://www.greenroomexchange.org/
