When extranjeros first think of Spain, most visualize imagery of bull fighting, flamenco and sangria. Although these are customs that have been treasured (and over-sensationalized in the media) for decades, times are changing. With each new generation, each new group of immigrants, and each new song uploaded onto YouTube, young Spaniards are re-inventing the rhythm of Spanish culture.
It is important to note that Lavapies is a neighborhood with a strong character and personality. If you walk its streets you will find street art, graffiti, small cultural venues, and families using the public space to fully interact with the city. Lavapies is an example of street culture in development; a barrio with a flavor for every type of person.
Like young people in America, many young Spaniards are frustrated by the economic situation. The newspaper El Pais recently reported that 21% (in the first quarter of 2011) of the nation is unemployed (9.6 million people). 95% of these people are between the ages of 18-30 (9.1 million). New laws have been passed making parents responsible for their adult children until the age of 27! People are looking to the government for support, but there's only so much the government can do.
Events like "Streetfest" can inspire young people to use their talents in athletics, art, music or whichever medium of expression to share their thoughts and concerns and influence change in their individual neighborhoods. This in turn will have a long lasting effect on the country overall. Streetball is exactly what the doctor ordered to cure disenfranchised youth.
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