Origin Bulletpoints:
- A popular misconception of Frogtown (Saint Paul) is that it was named for French immigrants and their love for frog legs. How grotesque!
- In my past life, I was an elder frog spirit that once ruled the swamps of Frogtown
- I am just a humble tadpole that have grown arms and legs
- I made my debut during National Night Out on Aug. 2017 because Frogtown needed a hero.
After putting the costume on, I needed to be bold, courageous, and be a good role model to kids. The most touching part of my debut was how POC (persons of color) kids looked up to me and were so joyful.
After the long winter, I have come back with additional transformations. Now, I have seat on the Frogtown Neighbors Association board (FNA)! I am actively promoting the superhero project!
The Superhero Project XYZ+!
I do not condone violence, such as the vigilantes in the movie Kick-Ass.
Early human cultures had stories/myths that appeal and invigorate our resolve. The modern day Epic of Gilgamesh are the superheroes of today. Superheroes appeal to a wide audience because it often deals with characters that experience adversity, trauma, life experiences, and, overall, it is entertaining. Many kids admire their heroes and even pretend to be them. So imagine the following:
What if kids (and adults alike) become their own hero?
In creating this local superhero identity, we would need to explore what makes us special and define our story. We foster and nurture our superhero qualities. We take meaningful actions to reinforce our values, personal well-being, AND prioritize our community!
Details/ Benefits:
Superhero Day [Proof of Concept]: I spend one day a week as a superhero to have transformative and meaningful experiences with community members and kids alike. Furthermore, how can this experience be used for self-healing, boost self-esteem, and build resiliency. In public, I switch roles between hero and adult within the presence of kids to indicate that you can switch roles.
Role-play:
Role-play allows us to be someone else. We shift our behavior, attitudes, and self-esteem to fit that role. I want to children to role-play responsible behaviors in physical and verbal conflicts. In addition, they can be mentors to others, which means having patience, compassion, and considerate. Furthermore, children will gain practice in performing these behaviors and experience the intrinsic rewards. For adults/teenagers, role-play has the same benefits, and gives us the opportunity to be silly, while at it.
Handling Trauma (Putting on the cape):
There are children in our community experience considerable emotional, physical, and financial hardship. One of the relatable aspects of popular fictional superheroes is that they experience tragic circumstances in childhood/ adulthood. Despite all of this, they choose to be heroes instead of giving up or becoming villains. Overcoming adversity or facing an obstacle can be intimidating. During moments of hardship, can we face it with stride! Note: Healing is a strong component to work with too. For adults, this can help address/combat with depression.
Community/Civic Engagement:
The number one rule of being a superhero is put your community first. This means helping others, contributing to communal spaces, and advocating for changes within our community. When children and adults see others being involved, it will encourage them to participate as well. Civic engagement assures that people needs are met, but also have resources to excel/ succeed.
Personal/ Local identity:
In creating your superhero identity, you need to create your own local personalized costume. What elements of your culture, community, interests, and personal history can be incorporated? Your costume should give you strength and pride. In addition, we can promote non-traditional heroes.
Personal Relationships/ Teamwork:
Superheroes often form teams to be able to tackle formidable obstacles. How can we work together and resolve internal conflicts in group settings? For teenagers/adults, how can we role model responsible behaviors in relationships and build resolve in standing up against abuse?
The superheroes already among us:
There are mascots and cosplayers that stir up the crowd, and inspire people.
Bottom-line:
If you are excited, and/or want to get involved. Please reach out to me. For any rival heroes: Bring it!
Sustain-Abu 