Portraits in Color

Breaking Glass Ceilings: Latina Women and Their Leadership Journeys

Dr. Frank recently had the opportunity to talk with three Latina leaders working in the Albuquerque area about their leadership journeys. Marisa Magallanez, Roberta Ricci , and Meriah Heredia Griego faced significant challenges and showed great resiliency in the face of racial and gender discrimination that has kept the doors of opportunity closed to many women, particularly women of color.  Learn about their stories and their commitment to opening doors for other women of color.

Soul Divine Uncovered

Soul Divine has been a staple of the Albuquerque music scene since 1997. In this episode, Dr. Frank and the members of Soul Divine share their history from the early days forming the group to opening up for the legendary James Brown. They also discuss their upcoming show "Uncovered", where they will be sharing their catalog of original music with their long-time supporters. The show on November 20, 2021 will also feature singer, songwriter Isaac Aragon and his band The Healing.Soul Divine Links:Facebook: @souldivineabqIG: @souldivineabqIsaac Aragon and The Healing Links:Facebook: @isaacaragon.77IG: @isaacaragonmusic

The Story of Downtown

Downtown Albuquerque. Along historic Route 66 lies a community at the intersection of what once was, and what could be. Like most places, it has seen its ups and downs. A once in a generation pandemic, a struggling economy, and issues of crime and homelessness are issues downtown residents grapple with every day. Many businesses have boarded up, opting for more economically viable and safer parts of the city. But, I spoke to 5 area business owners who embody the fighting spirit of the city and are committed to making downtown a thriving area of town once again.Special Thanks to Lola Bird and Danielle Schlobohm from Downtown ABQ Mainstreet for supporting this episode! Featured Businesses/OrganizationsThe BrewTuerta Fusion Theatre CompanySanitary Tortilla Factory Cecilia's CafeCheck out the video version of this episode below:The Story of Downtown

Stop the Asian Hate

The recent mass shooting in Atlanta remind us of the deep divides that exist in our country. Naturally, given what we know about the case, we have to ask the question: "were the shootings racially motivated." Dr. Frank explores this question and gives insight to why we can't ignore the history of racism against Asian Americans in this country, the hateful speech that flowed as a result of the coronavirus, and the racist tropes of Asian women in particular. This episode also sheds light on the inhumane treatment of children in detention facilities along the border as a result of failed U.S. immigration policy. Dr. Frank makes the case for comprehensive immigration reform and holds policy makers on both sides of the aisle to account for our nation's failed immigration policy. BONUS: At the end of this podcast, Dr. Frank shares an unreleased music track titled "The Border," which was written, produced, and performed by Frank "Kiko" Mirabal. The Border Credits:Written, produced and performed by Frank "Kiko" MirabalDrums, Keyboards, Bass & Vocals: Frank "Kiko" MirabalAdditional Vocals: Jak BaileyGuitar Solo: Exavier "Mr. Ex" ViramontezSpoken Word: Analisse Mirabal

Can White Evangelical Church Leaders Eradicate the Racism the Church Helped Create?

The insurrection at the Capitol Building on January 6th will be forever etched in the minds of Americans.  On full display that day were White nationalists with their American and Trump 2020 flags,  showing their undying love for a president who promotes hate, while also proudly carrying signs with quotes from scripture. Jer Swigart, Co-Founder of the Global Immersion Project is a peacemaker and pastor who confronts the racist past of the evangelical church and seeks to build church leaders who embrace a deeper understanding of Christianity--one that acknowledges the wrongs of the past while building anti-racist church leaders for the future. In this episode, Dr. Frank and Jer dive deep into the intersections of White nationalism and the church,  discuss his work as a global peacemaker, and explore a conversation where church leaders lead a movement that is rooted in justice.