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EcoMusica: Latin Rhythms spark Climate Action in Latino Communities
Las Vegas, NV – EcoMusica, an initiative powered by Moms Clean Air Force and EcoMadres, is striking a chord by using the universal language of Latin music to tackle climate change within Latino communities.This innovative approach not only educates but also inspires action, addressing the disproportionate impact of environmental issues on these communities.
A Multi-Ethnic Ensemble, SonTierra, is at the heart of this movement, using diverse Latin music styles to connect with audiences and encourage them to engage with leaders and legislators. The Group will be performing at the annual ecomadres Summit in Las Vegas on September 12th.
SonTierra: The Sound of Environmental Hope
With a blend of Cumbia, Band, Bolero, Merengue, Ballad, and Andean Folk, SonTierra’s performances create a vibrant and hopeful atmosphere. Their music serves as a powerful tool for building trust and fostering a sense of collective responsibility toward environmental stewardship.
Karen Stein, both a performer and the group’s manager, emphasizes the importance of singing ‘with’ the community, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and represented on stage. the Band’s Multi-Generational Makeup, with members ranging from 11 to 64 years old, includes:
- Edgar East (Panamanian)
- Edgar Solís (Mexican)
- Gabriela Valdivia (U.S.-born; Brazilian mother, Mexican father)
- Karen Stein (Colombian)
- Leo Roldán (Argentinean)
- Marián Vivas (Venezuelan)
- Stephanie Rivera (Cuban)
- Valentina Weihe (U.S.-born; Mexican mother, Puerto Rican father)
- Valery Figueroa (Venezuelan)
- Víctor Lara (Mexican)
Stein states, “Including people of various generations and of various ethnicities, it is important to make Latino communities feel like, ‘Oh, we could be [a part of this].’ They can identify with someone on stage.”
The EcoMadres Album: A Soundtrack for Change
Released on earth Day 2023, SonTierra’s 12-track album, EcoMadres, features original songs and covers that address pressing environmental issues. Available on SoundCloud, the album is primarily in Spanish, with some bilingual tracks.
Stein penned nine of the songs, tackling themes like climate change, air pollution, and the need for environmental justice. Tracks like “mama,” inspired by Mother Earth,and “Corrido p’al Congreso,” a mariachi-style message to the U.S.government, showcase the album’s diverse musical styles and powerful messages.
Karen Stein: From Rural Roots to Environmental Advocacy
Born and raised in Colombia, Karen Stein’s journey from a rural farm to becoming the Iowa field coordinator for Moms Clean Air Force and ecomadres is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Growing up without electricity, she developed a keen sense of sound, influenced by nature and the customary songs of farmworkers.
Her mother, a trained classical pianist, instilled in her a love for music. Stein’s early exposure to Latin-American artists in Costa Rica during a time of political upheaval further solidified her connection to music as a form of expression and advocacy.
With a Master’s degree in Sciences and Horticulture, Stein eventually returned to her musical roots, founding Latin Arts, a consortium of diverse ensembles. Her involvement with Moms Clean Air Force since 2019 has allowed her to merge her passion for music with her commitment to environmental justice.
Why Music? Building Trust and Inspiring Action
EcoMusica uses live performances to build trust within Latino communities, addressing the reality that many individuals are focused on immediate needs rather than long-term environmental action. by creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere, EcoMusica encourages participation and empowers individuals to advocate for change.
Stein emphasizes that the environmental justice work resonates with every member of sontierra, highlighting their individual contributions and commitment to the cause.
