The ACI family has only grown in beauty over the years as we have had the privilege of working with amazingly kind, talented, and creative individuals. One of those incredible souls has been Emmanuel (Manny) Martínez. Today, as we mourn his loss, we also take time to remember the vibrancy of his life. We invite you to join us remembering a life well lived.
Manny may be gone in body, but his spirit, and the impact he left on the lives of all he met, remains. He came to the ACI community as an Artist Outreach Intern through Lesley University. It did not take long for us to see that Manny’s dedication to and passion for building equitable arts and culture spaces was exemplified outside of work hours as well. A multi lingual graphic designer, multi-media and mural artist, Manny used his skills sets to work toward justice and to beautify the lives of others. As a member of the LGBTQ and Latinx immigrant communities, he always brought much needed perspective to the table. When he joined us, Manny had recently completed a project that he organized in Sao Paolo Brazil, where he got an entire neighborhood involved in designing and painting a mural for an organization that houses LGBTQ youth without homes or in transition. When he finished his time with us, he was preparing to work on another mural in Mexico.
In the office we spoke of travels to Berlin and experiences living abroad. We discussed the complexities of navigating the legacies and impacts of colonization and systemic injustice. We also ate clandestine boxes of Peeps- his favorite. Even as we attempt to move forward as a community, we remember. We remember the way Manny made our Youth United Artists feel seen and supported, and encouraged them to pursue their artwork. We remember his honesty, vulnerability and openness in the office. We remember someone truly beautiful, inside and out.
Services in Honor of Manny’s Memory
Saturday July 27th: Mass 6PM-7PM // Wake 7PM-10PM
Saint Benedicts Church: 21 Hathorn St, Somerville, MA 02145
Sunday July 28th: A celebration of Emmanuel’s life, organized by his friends, community, and loved ones. We’re gathering to find peace, to celebrate his light, and continue the legacy of his dedication to social advocacy and QTPOC+ culture and pride through the arts.
5-9PM on Lesley’s campus: Washburn Auditorium, 99 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Monday July 29th: Funeral Services 10AM
Forrest Dale Cemetery: 150 Forrest St Malden, MA 02148