Latinos Unite to Celebrate their Hispanic Heritage

By Jennifer L. Warren

MONROE –  A few years ago a group of very dedicated people had a vision: a local Latin Festival, complete with cultural and educational importance, one that extends beyond the typical dancing, singing and eating celebrations. Now, with the Second Annual Hudson Valley Fiesta Latina in the books Saturday, it’s safe  to say that initial ideal is truly beginning to blossom.

Once again, the setting for this year’s Fiesta was Monroe’s Museum Village, a fitting backdrop for one of the central pieces of the day’s focus.

“The purpose of this day is to bring Latinos to accept and appreciate American History,” stressed Ruben Estrada, New York State Chairman of the Latino NRC  (National Republican Coalition) and one of the organizers of the Fiesta. “You don’t throw out the baby with the bath water; if you come to this country, you need to appreciate our great history.”

Those attempts were readily visible at the Fiesta, as all of the Museum’s historical “houses”/cabins) were opened up for children (and adults) to visit; interpreters were also on hand.

The “living history” settings included; a log cabin, drugstore, tools store, weave shop, wagon shop, and several others, housing authentic artifacts from our history. In addition to the unique historical offerings, the day also featured; a Milagros for Colon Cancer Benefit 5k run/walk, games, facepainting, book giveaways, educational speakers, plenty of Latin music and of course, a large sampling of Latin cuisine, including empanadas, bacalaitos, vegetable tacos, and limber de coco. This year, more sponsors  jumped on board, supporting some very worthy cases; monies raised were donated to: The American Cancer Society, Museum Village as well as the Food Pantry of Iglesia Pentacostal Church in Middletown.

With Latin-American Month in full swing, several noted dignitaries were in attendance. Among them was Christopher Eachus, County Legislator of the 15th Legislative District, who is running for a local Senate seat this fall. Noting the variety of impressive vendors on hand, Eachus was quick to point to the critical importance of events like this one for our area, especially carrying significance for the Latin-American population.

“I’m here today to support this community; there is no better way than to come to a place like this; said Eachus. “We need to do events like this one more often, as it gives  the community a chance to come out and feel safe, while being introduced to all the programs available to them.”

Among those businesses who appeared, offering their services were; Shop Rite, Literacy Orange, AllState, Gloria’s Total Beauty Saloon and Spa, and Health and Fitness with Eileen.
Although the large turnout of local businesses and their huge support was deeply appreciated, the day’s focus remained on education, and specifically, the youth.

“The hope of this day is still spreading the word to Hispanic youth about the importance of taking up the learning of and appreciation for American History,” explained Michael Sosler,  Executive Director of Museum Village. “It’s all about education and being inspired by it, going to college, as these are our future leaders; therefore, I hope they are getting an inkling, an  interest in learning and crave for more.”

Signs of that curiosity being sparked were evident throughout Museum Village Saturday, as youth of all ages abounded.

“This is our first time coming here, and I’m excited because it’s my culture; I can’t wait to hear the music and see what there is to offer,” said Kyleen Davis of Monroe. “I really want my daughter Kariana to experience the culture today, and I’m so happy it’s being held here in Monroe because there really is a great need for events like this one in this area.”

Print Friendly, PDF & Email