My wife and I attended the Benito Juarez and Cesar Chavez celebration in West Dallas last Saturday. The event included a Ballet Folklorico and student Mariachi Group for entertainment, with individuals and organizations offering community resources.
We were there in part to distribute children’s books through our reading program, founded by LULAC Council 4568. The program’s name is the Little Readers-Fiesta de Libros program. We have now expanded the program with Hola Texas and Amigos 4 Progress, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. I am happy to report that we gave out lots of books and have been invited to attend a similar program in Garland.
In addition to the great entertainment and the resources the organizers of the event (Ronnie Mestas & Mary Lou Paras) presented the Adelita Award. For those that may not be familiar the Adelita the Soldaderas (female soldier). The Adelita fought alongside men during the Mexican Revolutionary War. Often engaging in battles either with loved ones and for the purpose of justice and equality. They were known for their strength and resilience, as well as for their bravery and beauty.
Dallas County Commissioner Elba Garcia was recognized for having the qualities of Adelita. Along with providing leadership and support for her community. Ms. Garcia graciously accepted the award and pledged to continue her support. (Become a lifesaver https://www.carterbloodcare.org/
Last I asked Mr. Mestas for a little background information about the event and location. He shared that the initial event was started by the late Rosa Lopez founder Vecinos Unidos in 1992. Which was established in the community of Los Altos in West Dallas. To provide help with the housing needs for people with limited resources and a need for family housing.
Ronnie and Mary Lou, along with other supporters, continued her work and organized the annual celebration for the last four years. The event was held at the Parque de Heroes (Heroes Park). Which had been renamed through the efforts of former city councilman Steve Salazar and other community leaders. Those efforts also led to securing a statue of Benito Juarez in 1997. Former Mexican president Benito Juarez was revered by many for his dedication to uplift indigenous people and other marginalized people. El Parque de Los Heroes is only one of a few locations in the U.S. where his image proudly stands.
This year was the first year that Cesar Chavez was added to the celebration which I believe will continue to grow. I would like to personally commend all those involved in organizing this celebration to honor two heroes and in turn honor all of us as well. We look forward to continuing to come out to serve the good people of West Dallas.
Este Weekend
On Saturday, the 29th Fort Worth will celebrate both Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta with the annual March and Rally. March will start at 10.00 am at Main & 8th Street General Fort Worth Square. Grand Marshals this year are Paul Chavez and Little Joe Hernandez.
This will be the 25th anniversary of the annual event in Fort Worth that will conclude with a reception at Artes De La Rosa 1440 N. Main at 12.30pm. Congratulations to Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta committee for a job well done. I plan to be there, and I hope you will join us to make it the best!
On Sunday, the 30th
Dallas will host what is titled as A Call for Unity, Loyalty and the American Dream Mega March. Thousands are expected to attend to show support for immigration rights and Justice for all. People are asked to show up early and use public transportation if all possible to avoid traffic jams. March will start at 2215 Ross Ave in the downtown Dallas area. Attendees are encouraged to wear white as a sign of peace and make this a truly unifying event. Reportable George Lopez and Martin Luther King Jr. along with other notables will be speaking at the event. Thanks to Domingo Garcia and all that have taken part in this huge organizing event. Buena Suerte and a prayer for a peaceful and successful event. https://domingogarcia.com/ Law Office
In closing, if you can, join us at both or either of the events. Show Up and Be Counted!
By A. Govea goveaalberto215@yahoo.com