Cost of Admission: $5-10 sliding scale
About the Feature
Mateo Mendoza is a first-generation, multi-racial musician from South Central Los Angeles. Growing up, he was active in church music acting as bandleader and choir conductor. While in college he studied Neuroscience and Music and was a founding member of a student of color music group known as UJIMA: A Groove Society. Drawing on Robert Glasper, Esperanza Spalding, and Buena Vista Social Club for inspiration, he became a regular in the New York City jazz jam session scene. He's been playing for 17 years, crafting his sound and style while exploring the intersections of jazz, latin music, experimental electronic music, and hip-hop. At EMW Bookstore, Mateo is Co-Director of Borderlands and a core organizer for StreetBio's Youth Science Initiative.
About East Meets Words
In March 2005, EMW Bookstore held its first monthly open mic. Now, over 132 open mics later, East Meets Words is one of the longest running Asian American open mic series in the country, and one of the main hubs of Asian American art and activism on the east coast.
At the open mic, participants can sign up to sing, spit, dance, play music, or share a story. Everyone is welcome. The space is especially appreciative of work that challenges stereotypes and amplifies marginalized voices. Time is set aside at each open mic for community announcements, meant to raise awareness about social justice issues in the greater Boston area.
Each month, we also feature an Asian / Pacific Islander artist or group, who will perform a full-length set after the open mic portion of the evening. Past features have ranged from nationally known artists such as Beau Sia and Kelly Tsai to local creatives like you and me.
We strive to create a safer space and a platform for artists and non-artists to perform work of all stages. Everyone is welcome to attend and sign up on the open mic. The space is especially appreciative of work that challenges stereotypes and amplifies marginalized voices - prioritizing API performers. Time is set aside at each open mic for community announcements, meant to raise awareness about social justice issues in the greater Boston area.
Accessibility
Gallery space is chair accessible. We will prioritize chair access in the aisles. Please find or contact an EMW Staff member for assistance with entry through front door.
Two single-stall, gender-neutral restrooms are available, one up a flight of stairs and one on the main floor with a step from the main entrance.
Please come fragrance free! For the health and safety of organizers, panelists, and other attendees, we ask you not to wear scented products or clothing that has recently been smoked in. More information here.
Wellness Squad members will be present at the event to facilitate emotional and community safety.