The Beginning, Not The End...

Three days before our last class, the project manager from Mural Arts got a phone call from Septa saying that the channel 6 ABC news wanted to do a short story on the program. We were honored and overwhelmed all at the same time. We were excited to have Tema back for this session. She brought so much energy and enthusiasm with her to each class and we knew this one would be no different. Initially we had planned to bring in a capoeira group, but we had rescheduled it for our reunion in the first week of September. We started to pull together ideas and brainstorm to create a fun last class. Tema recommended a musician that teaches and explores various types of ethnic instruments and song while Kevin reserved a space at the Mural Arts building. 9 am, the news arrived at Septa headquarters ready to film our candid explorations.

Tema started with her infamous morning warm-up "ice breaker" activity, although by this point the ice had clearly been broken and everyone was here to have a good time. After shaking every limb and muscle, and warming up our smiles, we set out on the next train and began shooting. The news followed and were able to capture our footsteps through the trains. We took pictures of each other, set-up shots, and once we got off the train laughed as we walked through the rain all the way to mural arts.

When we got there, the musician's instruments were spread across the floor ready to be played and explored. Everyone gathered around him as he shared the history of the instruments. The news stayed to film and interview the class as they shared the personal transitions they were able to make through this program. For some, the experience will change how they treat a future person, situation, and even themselves. Through communication, photography, awareness of others, and a newfound respect for humanity each participant of this program created a relationship with one another and a new perspective on where each person comes from.

When the musical history finished, everyone grabbed an instrument and began to play. This drum circle/jam session created great energy and a sense of community as we all laughed with each other. As the program came to a close, everyone realized their own hurdles they had jumped and the struggles we as humans still need to overcome. Hugs and smiles were the last piece that brought this group together. Thinking back from the first day, this is a big step.

"This is the beginning, not the end..." Bernadette (participant in Septa Cops and Kids 2010)

To see the clip on channel 6 ABC News, go here: http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/video?id=7607303