The festival was founded in 1990 by social activist and artist Irwin Oostindie, and was collaboratively produced by volunteers who represented social movements in the region. UTV featured a number of high-profile activists and entertainers in its 20 years of existence, including: Ward Churchill, Faith Nolan, Kinnie Starr, Paint, Kathleen Yearwood, Tegan & Sara, Naomi Klein and Lourdes Perez.
The festival was established in 1990 by social activist Irwin Oostindie and was produced collaboratively by volunteers representing various social movements over its 20-year history. UTV featured prominent activists and entertainers throughout its existence, including Ward Churchill, Faith Nolan, Kinnie Starr, Paint, Kathleen Yearwood, Tegan & Sara, Naomi Klein, and Lourdes Perez.