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Dr. Pujana said the mission was to increasing visibility of the
Latino communities’cultural, ethnic diversity and awareness of
the services available through local non-profit organizations.
It was a rare opportunity for all sectors to collaborate and
strengthen relationships for a unified city in action.
Sharing the
spotlight with the legendary group were 42 local artists, music
groups, performers and non-profit organizations displaying
colorful array of talent, enthusiasm, and passion within
Cleveland.
Before the
concert, guests enjoyed cultural and contemporary dances, art
displays, and received information regarding various non-profit
organizations that provide special services to Latino and
minority communities.
Rick A. Kemm and Blanca Figueroa
of the May Dugan Center were among many of the non-profit
organizations spreading the word about their services. The
Center provides educational assistance with GEDs,
English-as-a-second-language courses, unemployment assistance,
food and clothing. Kemm said on average the Center delivers
70,000 meals annually within the community.
Emerging
artists like Marco Ivan Grgurevic, lead singer and
composer for Grupo
Son Gitano
welcomed the opportunity to share his passion for salsa music
and said he was humbled to be in the presence of legends.
Grgurevic formed the group two years ago, but has been composing
songs in Spanish since he was 14 years old. He said finding the
right members was a challenge but the seven members bring their
eclectic expertise and backgrounds for a unique sound.
“We are not
trying to conform,” he said, adding their music is Latin fusion
rather than traditional salsa. Son Gitano has performed at local
festivals including Wade Oval Wednesday’s series. “My
goal was to make one person tap their foot to our music,” said
Grgurevic. Their recently released CD features 6 original songs
and was recorded by the only Latino-owned recording company in
Cleveland, Whoville Recording.
Antonio Barrios, president of
the Lorain Arts Council, expressed his gratitude to
organizer Will Sánchez for the opportunity to display and
share the art rendered by artists from Lorain. He said as
schools struggle with budgets for the arts, the Council is
trying to bridge the gap and provide opportunities to youth and
adults to express their selves.
The council
offers classes that range from photography, painting, to
zentangle. “Artists truly are an economic engine,” said Barrios,
adding that the deflated economy makes every sale important for
struggling artists.
US Congresswoman Marcia
Fudge presented event chairs and organizers with special
congressional recognitions and applauded their efforts. Awards
and proclamations were also presented by representatives of US
Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Mayor Frank Jackson,
and Cleveland City Council. |
