Welcome to the Movement ????
Zuly E. Inirio, DMA, LSW
Award-Winning Soprano | TEDx Speaker | Scholar | Cimarrona
I’ve always believed that art is more than just beauty—it’s a force. It shapes identities, challenges systems, and tells the stories that history tries to erase. As an opera singer, cultural strategist, and a cimarrona, my work has always lived at the intersection of music, culture, and social change.
But the more I’ve navigated the world of classical music, the more I’ve seen how deeply Eurocentrism, exclusion, and gatekeeping shape the industry. The voices, stories, and creative legacies of marginalized communities—especially Afro-Latinx artists—are too often erased, undervalued, or forced into the margins.
That’s why I’m launching my Substack—because these conversations matter, and they deserve a space of their own.
What You Can Expect There
? Deep Dives & Honest Reflections – I’ll be writing about the Afro-Latinx experience in classical music, the fight for equity in the arts, and the work of reclaiming our creative legacies. I’ll share my personal journey, lessons from my career, and the stories of those pushing for real change.
?? Decolonizing the Arts – We’ll explore the ways classical music and cultural institutions uphold exclusionary traditions—and how we can challenge and reshape them.
?? Behind-the-Scenes & Creative Process – Insights into my projects, performances, and advocacy work, plus sneak peeks into what I’m building with Instituto Cimarrón, the Afro-Latinx Song & Opera Project, and more.
?? How Often? I’ll post bi-weekly (or close to it), with a mix of essays, shorter reflections, and subscriber-only exclusives.
How You Can Support This Work
The newsletter is free to read, but paid subscribers get access to even more:
?? Exclusive Content & Bonus Features – Deep-dive essays, Q&As, and behind-the-scenes access.
?? Community Building & Impact – Your support helps sustain and expand this work, from advocacy to research to performances.
??? Founding Members – For those who want to go deeper, founding members get all paid benefits PLUS insider updates, special shoutouts, and access to exclusive virtual gatherings.
?? Subscribe for free to stay connected.
?? Upgrade to paid to fuel this work & unlock deeper conversations.
Thank you for being here. Let’s build something powerful together. ???