Introduction to the National Cultural Festival: “Tengo un Sueño Estatal”
The Mexican Government’s Secretariat of Culture, through the General Directorate of Cultural Linkage, launched the state initiative “Tengo un Sueño Estatal” (I Have a Dream State), specifically the “Fiesta de las Culturas Comunitarias” (Community Cultures Festival). This event will feature 23 artistic and cultural presentations across 23 Mexican states, showcasing the achievements of Creative Seeds (Semilleros Creativos).
What are Creative Seeds?
Creative Seeds are free-forming groups that, according to authorities, have evolved beyond “simple workshops” into “spaces of coexistence, expression, and dialogue for children and youth in socially vulnerable situations.” These groups aim to foster community building and a culture of peace through diverse artistic expressions.
Presentations and Impact
From August to December 2025, these Creative Seeds will present various acts in theaters, museums, and cultural centers across Mexico. Participants will share their artistic talents, including drawing, painting, theater, dance, and circus arts. The primary goal is for children, youth, and young adults to find their voice, discover their talents, and strengthen their identities by connecting with their roots through art.
Interinstitutional Collaboration and Support
At a press conference, Diego Raúl Martínez García, Director General of Cultural Linkage, emphasized the significance of interinstitutional collaboration. He stated that Creative Seeds have become “fundamental spaces for listening and building community with the children and youth of our country.”
Aída Melina Martínez Rebolledo, the Cultural Secretary of Guerrero, echoed this sentiment, describing Creative Seeds as a “culturally interesting pivot” that successfully bridges the needs of a diverse and culturally rich state, particularly in indigenous and Afro-descendant communities. In her state, the seeds are “the dreamland, hope, and love given to children and youth.”
Mónica Sosa Rodríguez, General Director of the Institute of Culture and Arts of Campeche, highlighted her state’s commitment to these initiatives. “Betting on art helps us form individuals, new people, and generate relationships where our children learn to dream, promote creativity, and strengthen self-esteem through various artistic disciplines.” Flavio Sosa Villavicencio, Secretary of Culture and Arts of Oaxaca, emphasized the state’s decentralization efforts in cultural development and the strategic importance of Creative Seeds.
Expansion and Sustainability
By 2025, Creative Seeds will grow under Model B, a federal-local coinvestment strategy. This model requires localities to cover operational expenses while the DGVC provides methodological, pedagogical, and community support as part of the Cultural Community program. New groups will join the National Network of Creative Seeds.
Professionalization and Resilience
State representatives agree that Creative Seeds have become a “source of talent and resilience.” Participants, who have showcased their skills in Mexico’s most prestigious cultural venues and internationally, have found a true calling in art. Many young artists from these groups are now pursuing professional careers in various disciplines.
Cuitláhuac Adelelbo Díaz Acevedo, a former participant in the Teatro Creative Seed in Tecomán, Colima, shared his experience during the press conference: “Being able to show not only our families but also Mexico in general that these are not mere phases or whims of children who suddenly choose this path but genuine passions we carry within us.” Several of his fellow Creative Seed members have since embarked on careers in teaching, social work, or artistic creation.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the “Tengo un Sueño Estatal” initiative? It’s a state program by the Mexican Secretariat of Culture promoting community-based arts programs called Creative Seeds.
- What are Creative Seeds? They are free-forming groups that provide artistic expression and community building opportunities for vulnerable children and youth.
- When and where will the presentations take place? Presentations will occur from August to December 2025 in various states across Mexico.
- What is the goal of these presentations? To enable children, youth, and young adults to find their voice, discover talents, and strengthen identities through art.
- How is the program supported? Through interinstitutional collaboration and Model B, a federal-local coinvestment strategy that supports operational costs and provides methodological, pedagogical, and community assistance.
