DreamHour Panel Series

From various faith and philosophical vantage points, this DreamHour Panel includes Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Native American, Buddhist, Sikh, and Atheist perspectives on what it means to be neighbor and why loving our neighbor is essential in our personal and public lives, as a people and a planet, in our current context towards future flourishing as holistic humans. This is a must-attend moment-of-hearing from current-future leaders in San Antonio!

Facilitator:

Ann Helmke – Faith and Compassion Liaison, City of San Antonio

Speakers:

Antonio Frietze (Christian) – Director of Continuing Education, Oblate School of Theology

Darsh Singh (Sikh) – Junior at Keystone High interning with the City’s Faith Initiative & CompassionateSA

Estrella Needham (Atheist) – Student at University of the Incarnate Word and Youth Delegate to Nobel Peace Laureate Summit 2024

Jordyn Galvan (Native American)  – Development and Communications Coordinator, American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions

Kristie Alsagar (Muslim) – Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Chair, San Antonio Community Resource Directory (SACRD.org)

Ross Halfant (Jewish) – Director of Programming & Social Justice, Temple Beth-El

This panel, aligned with DreamWeek’s 2025 theme “We Are Neighbor,” will explore journalism’s essential role in fostering community, trust, and understanding amid today’s challenges with misinformation. As modern media channels—social media, podcasts, and unvetted sources—gain influence, communities face an increased risk of disconnection, division, and mistrust. This discussion will delve into how journalism, rooted in accuracy and ethics, can counter these effects by acting as a unifying force and a trusted neighbor in our shared information landscape.

Panelists:

• Ashley Alvarado – Texas Public Radio
• Cary Clack – San Antonio Express-News
• Iris Dimmick – San Antonio Report
• Paul Flahive – Texas Public Radio

Doors open at 5:30 PM | Program begins at 6 PM

“Non-Monolith” is a celebration of the multifaceted lives of Black men, defying the one-dimensional narratives often imposed upon them. This exhibition brings together a diverse group of artists who explore the richness and complexity of Black male identity, emphasizing that Black men are not a monolith but a tapestry of varied experiences, talents, and stories.

“Non-Monolith” is a testament to the power of authenticity and self-expression. It is a space where the diverse voices of Black men can be heard, seen, and felt in their true forms, enriching not only our lives but the broader community as well. This space will serve as a reminder that within each of us lies the potential to create, inspire, and transform.

Curated by Maverick Pascal and Calvin Pressley. Artist talk moderated by Anthony Francis. The exhibition and artist talk aim to highlight how the challenges and struggles that may seek to divide us also offer opportunities for growth, resilience, and creativity. By embracing our individuality and the nuances of our experiences, we not only survive but thrive—adding depth, color, and vibrancy to the world around us.

Lead Prevention Navigator, Thomas Evans will moderate this discussion on the rates of HIV featuring medical professionals to address the rates of HIV within our community and to explore strategies for informing our population about best practices and available testing resources.

Spoken word about HIV in the community during reception.
WestCare Texas presents ” What the Health? Courageous Conversation on rates of HIV in BIPOC Communities.