Organizers of “Fiesta Latina,” including Jefferson Mayor Dale Oppermann and alderperson Jim Schroeoder, have announced that the event, which is meant to connect with the Latino community and celebrate its culture, will be held Sunday.
According to information released by organizers, the intent of the celebration is to “connect with a segment of the community which historically may not have always felt connected.”
The event will be held in Jefferson’s Rotary Park, 301 S. Gardner Ave., between noon and 6 p.m.
Fiesta Latina will feature live music with three bands playing the “Cumbia,” “Norteña,” and other styles of music, the release stated.
Event-goers will find a DJ, authentic Mexican food and beverages for purchase, a folkloric children’s dance group in traditional costume, a children’s activities area, and information tables from community based groups.
The event is free an open to the public.
Within the release, organizers stated: “Te invita a la primera Fiesta Latina en Jefferson — Everyone is welcome to come celebrate with our Latino neighbors on Sunday.”
Additional organizers of the event include Schroeder’s wife, Cristy, and community leaders Elizabeth Pizano and Benjamin Gomez. Sponsors of the event include the city of Jefferson, Nestle Purina, and Jefferson Utilities, according to the release.
The release noted that Schroeder, who is a lifelong resident of Jefferson, and whose wife hails from Mexico City, said: “I’ve come to a deep appreciation of Latino culture through Cristy and her family, and Cristy has come to the same appreciation of American culture as she prepares for American citizenship. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve as a bridge within our community.”
The couple noted that they hope members of the entire Jefferson community, and surrounding communities will join in the activities on Sunday.
The release noted that, according to most recent U.S. Census data, 11% of Jefferson’s population identifies a Latino.
“We celebrate our German heritage each September during Gemuetlicheit Days, and we feel it’s also important to recognize the culture of a significant segment of our community with a special celebration,” Oppermann was quoted as saying in the release.
“Fiesta Latina” organizers Jefferson city alderman Jim Schroeder, at left, and community leader Benjamín Gomez prepare for Sunday’s event, which, they said, is free, open to the public, and meant to connect the Latino and broader community while celebrating Latino culture. Contributed photo.
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