Day 155, 156, 157

More than 4 months without electricity, without water — a crisis caused by a natural disaster, but made possible by over a century of U.S. colonialism. For about a million Puerto Ricans, this is still their daily reality. Without a vote in Congress, and with increasingly restrictive laws and regulation, the island has had little power in helping itself, becoming more dependent every day on outside help.

Day 155, 156, 157 is an educational experience, working to put the current crisis into perspective. The programming included an exhibition of photographic and sculptural work, depicting the tragedy and the prevalent need in Puerto Rico. Proceeds from the exhibition went toward helping small Puerto Rican farmers re-establish their farms and rebuild their communities.

A communal flag folding of a 750 square foot Puerto Rican Flag was followed by a film screening of Harvest of Empire: a documentary taking a look at the history of U.S. intervention in Latin America and the resulting emigrations. The exhibition also featured an experimental music performance by DJ Rattan.

Day 155, 156, 157 organizer, Steven Casanova, is a multimedia artist with a focus on social justice projects. He has been featured in group shows at 1708 Gallery, The Anderson, Studio 6, and The Valentine Museum. Since Hurricane Maria struck in September 2017, Steven has been active in fundraisers, lectures, panels, protests, marches, and work on the ground in Puerto Rico, bringing attention and aid to those affected by the tragedy.