In conversation with Lonnie Ali, CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center, Valdez reflects on the themes at the heart of the series: identity, solidarity, resistance, resilience, and hope. Through intimate portraits and evocative scenes, The New Americans explores the shared struggles and collective spirit that define contemporary America.

As part of the Rothko Chapel’s Program Season Kick-Off, Recommitting to Democracy: A Sacred & Creative Struggle, community leaders, artists, and voices from across Houston reflect on democracy, civic engagement, collective action, and how we can work together to build a more connected, just, and hopeful future. Press play, hear their perspectives, and join the conversation about what we can do better—together.

How does the growing politicization of religion impact democracy, religious freedom, and community life in Texas? Hosted by the Rothko Chapel in partnership with the Texas Interfaith Legislators Caucus, this timely panel discussion brings together Texas legislators, faith leaders, and journalists to examine the rise of anti-Muslim and antisemitic hate, the importance of interfaith dialogue, and the role of religious literacy in building a more inclusive democracy. Panelists explore how communities can strengthen relationships across faith traditions, defend religious liberty, and create pathways toward solidarity for all Texans.

31st Annual MLK Birthday Observance ”We Got Us: Health & Care Beyond Capitalism” by Rothko Chapel

Guided Meditation by His Holiness Swami Vidyadhishananda Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the Rothko Chapel His Holiness Swami Vidyadhishananda is a Himalayan siddha monk, who hails from unbroken lineages of the combined heritage of rishi sages and nath meditation adepts. He has directly learnt the Himalayan Kriyayoga meditation system from Tryambaknāth, (popularly known as Mahavatar Babaji). Currently, His Holiness is developing Sambhala Online University based on the teachings from Jñanā-gañja, a siddha enclave commonly known as Sambhala located in Tibet, east of Limpiadhura Pass bordering India. He is among the very few experts outside of India who has been awarded the degree of DLitt et Phil (Mahāmahopādhyāya) by the erstwhile President of the Association of Indian Universities and by the Sanskrit scholars of Calcutta, India. The degree was conferred in recognition of his meditative interpretation, scholarly analysis, and ability to articulate the philosophical nuances of Sanskrit literature. He is the spiritual founder of the US Nonprofit, Self Enquiry Life Fellowship.

"The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science," Talk by Dr. Peter Hotez, epidemiologist & professor Villa Albertine’s signature evening of arts and culture marathon, “Night of Ideas,” took place from March 27 through April 6 across 20 US cities. The event brought together thought leaders, activists, performers, authors, and academics to engage the public in late-night discussions addressing major global issues. This year’s unifying theme, “Common Ground,” encouraged participants to reflect on how we can commit to and protect what we share. Conversations explored ways to foster authentic interpersonal connections in an increasingly digital world, opportunities for dialogue in a polarized political landscape, and strategies to preserve the land amidst extreme weather threats. Night of Ideas was presented by Villa Albertine and Albertine Foundation and coordinated worldwide by the Institut Français.

“The Advocacy Power of Music & Poetry,” Performance & Discussion with Toni Hickman & Sofia Heyl Special Thanks to Community Partner ReelAbilities Villa Albertine’s signature evening of arts and culture marathon, “Night of Ideas,” took place from March 27 through April 6 across 20 US cities. The event brought together thought leaders, activists, performers, authors, and academics to engage the public in late-night discussions addressing major global issues. This year’s unifying theme, “Common Ground,” encouraged participants to reflect on how we can commit to and protect what we share. Conversations explored ways to foster authentic interpersonal connections in an increasingly digital world, opportunities for dialogue in a polarized political landscape, and strategies to preserve the land amidst extreme weather threats. Night of Ideas was presented by Villa Albertine and Albertine Foundation and coordinated worldwide by the Institut Français.

“Connecting through Music & Medicine,” Performance by Texas Medical Center Orchestra Villa Albertine’s signature evening of arts and culture marathon, “Night of Ideas,” took place from March 27 through April 6 across 20 US cities. The event brought together thought leaders, activists, performers, authors, and academics to engage the public in late-night discussions addressing major global issues. This year’s unifying theme, “Common Ground,” encouraged participants to reflect on how we can commit to and protect what we share. Conversations explored ways to foster authentic interpersonal connections in an increasingly digital world, opportunities for dialogue in a polarized political landscape, and strategies to preserve the land amidst extreme weather threats. Night of Ideas was presented by Villa Albertine and Albertine Foundation and coordinated worldwide by the Institut Français.

This year's observance provided space for learning, restoration, and renewal through a conversation and meditative moment on sustaining action focused particularly on youth organizers working for climate justice and community health. Inspired by the 2023 ruling in the Held v. Montana case on the state’s constitutional rights to health, representatives from Our Children’s Trust including staff attorney David Schwartz and youth plaintiffs shared the development and success of this case, and how their methods could be applied across the country. A community discussion followed with Texas-based youth and grassroots activists including Chanté Davis (Sunrise Houston) and Armon Alex (Gulf of Mexico Youth Climate Summit) about the links between environmental and climate justice and community health, moderated by Andre Segura, VP of Litigation at Earthjustice. Reflection time was facilitated by Tiffany Jin, Co-Director of Houston Climate Justice Museum. Special thanks to Hershey Foundation for underwriting support

Led by conductor Delyana Lazarova, people experienced Aaron Copland’s iconic tone poem Appalachian Spring in its original 13-piece version, along with the world premiere of a new companion work by James Stephenson—as Houston Contemporary Dance Company, choreographed by Founding Artistic Director Marlana Doyle.