The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora

The Zamoras meet in the courtyard the next morning to prepare for their protest that day. Stacks of flyers are ready for distribution, courtesy of the “Green Teens,” Vanessa’s student organization dedicated to protecting the environment. Featuring photos of Abuela and La Cocina, the flyers also contain information about the environmental impacts of high-rise buildings. Before walking over to the festival, Vanessa assigns everyone to different posts in the lot, so the flyers will reach as many people as possible.

Tents, booths, stages, and people now crowd the formerly empty lot. Long lines stretch from a food tent offering free sushi, and raffle booths promise prizes like iPads and Caribbean vacations. Vanessa begins handing out flyers, but before the Zamoras disperse to their stations, Wilfrido appears. His fake smile quickly fades, and he sneers, “If I see one flyer or sign within the festival, I will call the chief of police—someone I’ve gotten to know very well over the last few weeks” (140). After he stalks off, Vanessa reminds her family of their right to protest, but redirects them to posts right outside the festival entrance.

Carmen joins Arturo at his spot. She holds a sign that reads, “FAMILY IS COMMUNITY—COMMUNITY IS FAMILY” (141), while Arturo passes out flyers.