Imagination Is a Weapon: Favianna Rodriguez on Creative Liberation

Is Culture our most powerful tool for making a just world? 

Artist Favianna Rodriguez joins Kumi Naidoo to explore how art isn’t just a mirror to society—it’s a hammer to shape it. As a cultural strategist Favianna reframes activism as a creative, emotional, and embodied act. From growing up amid the drug war and police brutality in East Oakland to leading national protests and organizing artists globally, Favianna’s life is a testament to culture as a catalyst. 

Together, they discuss: 

• How culture shapes imagination and why imagination is essential for justice 
• Why every movement needs art, music, and joy to thrive 
• The systemic erasure of communities of color and why representation matters. 
• Real-world examples of how culture preceded political victories—from LGBTQ+ rights to environmental protection. 
• How right-wing politics have captured pop culture and what the resistance can learn from it. 
• Her call to action: Make art. Make noise. Make joy irresistible. 

🔗 Resources & Mentions 

• Favianna Rodriguez’s website 
• The Center for Cultural Power 
• Sun City by Artists United Against Apartheid 
• Bob Marley – Get Up, Stand Up 
• “Migration is Beautiful” project 
• [Global ARTivism Gathering, Nov 3–9, 2025 – details TBA] 

 Produced by Larj Media