On May 22nd, 2022, Xavier Cortada engaged 75 Miami Senior High School students in an effort to install Underwater Markers in as many yards and windows of small businesses on Calle Ocho as possible. 

After practicing what to say to shopkeepers, in English and in Spanish, Cortada and the students walked from Miami High to Calle Ocho and split into two groups. Store by store, the students began conversations about the initiative and asked if they would be allowed to put an Underwater Marker, with each business’ elevation above sea level drawn on top, in a visible location for customers and passersby to see.

By the end of the afternoon, dozens of businesses along Calle Ocho had proudly displayed their Underwater Marker and began a process of engaging and educating their neighbors about their shared vulnerability to rising seas.