No es fácil/It ain’t easy is a multi-site project meant to give hope and encouragement during the COVID-19 pandemic. Encouraging phrases in both Spanish and English will be printed in block letters in bright colors. The project is inspired by the titular phrase, which Sosa often heard growing up in Miami. Phrases printed on the billboards will include “No es fácil, pero no te desesperes” (It ain’t easy, but don’t despair), “It ain’t easy, but keep going” and “Tremendo lío, pero tú sigue” (It’s such a mess, but stay the course). Billboards in Spanish will be placed in predominantly Spanish-speaking neighborhoods, including East Boston and Egleston Square, while those in English will be in other locations throughout the city. The billboards will be accompanied by writing and silk screening workshops that empower people to write their own phrases and make their own signs.

LOCATIONS

Chelsea/East Boston Bridge

Central Square, East Boston

Roslindale Square

Washington Street, Roslindale

Blue Hill Avenue and Warren Street, Dorchester

Blue Hill Avenue and Julian Street, Dorchester

Nubian Square, Roxbury

Mattapan Square

Egleston Square, Roxbury/JP