Neighbors of the city of East Palo Alto, California, celebrated the cry of independence of Latin American countries, thus celebrating the Latino community in the United States.
More than 6 thousand people attended the event, who enjoyed a music festival with different types of bands, accompanied by a varied gastronomy, crafts and clothing with colors that reflected the flag of Central American countries.
Rubén Abrica, councilor of East Palo Alto and members of the committee, were in charge of addressing a few words to the attendees.
?I thank the attendees and guests for sharing and enjoying these activities that have been prepared for you. Today is a day to remember the independence of Hispanic countries, "Long live Mexico, Long live Mexico, Long live Central America," I chant along with the attendees.
?It is a party to have fun and spend time with the family, we have visitors from neighboring communities in the Bay; Redwood City, San José, Menlo Park, and San Carlos, among other visitors. The city of East Palo Alto has changed, it is not how we saw ourselves before, we have a folk music festival and cultural events? Abrica said.
According to Edwin Cuellar, president of the Latino Committee (CL) of East Palo Alto, he said that the objective of this event is to celebrate the independence of the people of Central America, although today the cry for Mexican independence is celebrated.
This event, which the Latino Committee (CL) and its sponsors are hosting, is part of a series of activities that have been planned throughout the year, such as the Latino Festival on May 5 and the 40th anniversary of East Palo Alto.
"Our message is to tell you that East Palo Alto has changed, it is not a criminal community, since years ago it was a community seen with a higher rate of violence, not only at the state of California, but at the national level," said Cuellar.
For Edwin Cuellar, this was an event that had the support of local authorities: the city of East Palo Alto, La Bahía TV, Menlo Park Fire District, Tacos y Hamburguesas ?Toluco?, and the Police of East Palo Alto.
?There is nothing more to do than make the community visible. We are a quiet community, these events help us make known the cultural wealth and family coexistence that exists?, he pointed out.
Lisa Gauthier, mayor of the city of East Palo Alto, attended and addressed attendees with a Mexican flag in hand. With a few words, he thanked and encouraged the participation of the attendees "enjoy the party," he concluded.
The event took place in the 1990 Bay Rd in East Palo Alto. Started at 12:30 and ended at 7:00 p.m. Admission was free.
Attendees were able to enjoy the presentation of the musical bands: La Raza Obrera, Wilver, and Internacional Sonora Dinamita, in addition to the dance of Los diablos de Oaxacaliforinia. In turn, they were able to taste various foods, and had information on topics of interest to the local community, among other activities.
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