Here goes my reputation, such as it is, as a hardnosed, take-no-prisoners divorce attorney. Truth be told, I never actually had that type of reputation, nor did I ever aspire to have it. In my line of work, you see enough conflict to last several lifetimes. You learn quickly that while the law can divide assets, establish custodial rights and make support orders, it takes something much more profound to heal a community or build a bridge between neighbors.
That is why I am writing about a vision for Los Gatos that has nothing to do with litigation and everything to do with our common humanity. I believe Los Gatos should host an exhibit modeled after the “Embracing Our Differences” initiative. It is a project that can inspire our community to be kinder and more inclusive, fostering a sense of cohesiveness that often gets lost in the hustle of Silicon Valley life.
The power of art and prose
Since 2004, the Florida-based organization Embracing Our Differences has used the power of art and prose to promote inclusion, kindness and respect. Their flagship event is an annual international art exhibition held at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park and St. Petersburg’s Poynter Park.
Imagine walking through Vasona Park and encountering fifty billboard-sized works of art. Each piece is paired with a thought-provoking quotation, creating a gallery that is accessible and monumental. The magic of this exhibition lies in its dual nature:
- The visual: Winning artworks are selected for their deep understanding of both medium and message.
- The verbal: The accompanying statements provide insight into our shared experiences and the unique differences that define us.
What makes this truly special is that the artwork and quotations are judged blindly by separate volunteer committees and then matched together. It is a collaborative effort that mirrors the diversity it seeks to celebrate.
A global phenomenon
The scale of this initiative is staggering. In 2025, 382,340 people visited the exhibition, bringing the total number of visitors to more than 5.2 million since its inception. The call for entries for the 2026 Exhibition saw 14,904 entries pouring in from 125 countries and 48 states.
Perhaps most inspiring is the involvement of the next generation. More than 60% of submissions come from students representing hundreds of schools worldwide. This is a global conversation led by young people who are eager to define the world through a lens of respect rather than division.
Education Beyond the Billboard
The outdoor exhibition is merely the heart of a year-round program. Embracing Our Differences partners with school districts to provide:
- Educator workshops: Curricula designed to help teachers navigate topics of inclusion.
- Student docent programs: High school students are empowered to lead tours and explain the art to their peers.
- Accessibility: The program provides free bus transportation for students and teachers to visit cultural venues.
Since 2004, more than 694,000 students have participated in these educational initiatives. During the 2024–2025 school year, over 51,000 students and 2,000 teachers were impacted. This is the kind of sustained, meaningful engagement that changes the culture of a town.
A call for new leadership
I am a firm believer that Los Gatos would benefit immensely from such a catalyst. However, I’m not going to lead the charge on this one.
A few years ago, I attempted to initiate a restorative justice program in Los Gatos schools. I ran headfirst into a “bureaucracy buzzsaw” that left me exhausted and, frankly, a bit disillusioned with the administrative hurdles required to spark systemic change in our local institutions. While my passion for the cause remains, my appetite for navigating that buzzsaw has waned.
I am leaving it to others to pursue this venture.
Why now?
We live in a beautiful town, but we are not immune to the polarization affecting the rest of the country. An exhibit like this invites and illustrates. By showcasing international perspectives alongside local voices, we remind ourselves that “inclusion” is a practice.
The $2,000 award for Best-in-Show for both adults and students is a nice incentive, but the true reward for Los Gatos would be the conversations sparked by the exhibition.
So, to the leaders and creators of Los Gatos: the blueprint exists. The proof of impact is undeniable. Who among you is ready to pick up the mantle and bring “Embracing Our Differences” to our streets? Our community is waiting.
