Vancouverscape, a Vancouver based blog covering travel, tech, and lifestyle

Carmen Aguirre, author of the national bestseller Something Fierce: Memoirs of a Revolutionary Daughter (winner of 2012’s Canada Reads) was owed $60,000 in royalties when D&M Publishers went bankrupt later that year.

The Santiago-born writer and independent theatre artist never received that 60 grand owed her.

Malón is a Chilean term of Mapuche origin, describing Mapuche raids/assaults on the Spaniards, but the word’s evolved over time, translating to a big party where everybody “takes over/assaults” somebody’s house (with their previous consent) and contributes with food, music, and whatever else is needed to have a good time.

A Gran Malón has been organized in Vancouver to help Carmen recover her royalties. Join the local creative community in an evening of performances, food, and readings. Autographed copies of the Douglas & McIntyre edition of Something Fierce will also be for sale at the event; all proceeds will benefit Carmen directly.

Consider an online donation if you’re unable to attend or live outside Vancouver.

In addition to hearing from Carmen, guests will enjoy a stellar list of readers and performers who will join her on stage, including:
– Comedian and political satirist Lalo Espejo (emcee)  
– Award-winning novelist and poet Carmen Rodriguez  
– Acclaimed actors/playwrights Lucia Frangione, Leanna Brodie, and Jovanni Sy  
– Empanadas, desserts galore, iced coffee from Café Justicia, and dancing with DJ Adriana

Gran Malón: In Solidarity with Carmen Aguirre

Date: June 9, 7:30 to 10 pm
Venue: Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Creative ticket pricing for this event: $20 to $500; choose to attend in person or virtually (virtual attendees will be thanked by name during the evening’s program)
Note: This event is expected to sell out; please order tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Visit the website for more information.