Pittsburg commemorated the life of Cesar Chavez with an afternoon of song, dance and celebration presented by Give Always to Others (GATO), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting multiculturalism in our communities.
The historic Creative Arts Building was packed with patrons – young and old – all ready for a day of jubilant music with their friends, family and community on Sunday, March 25.
In the foyer, GATO set up displays of history and biographies of Cesar Chavez, showing his contributions to Mexican-Americans. Attendees browsed the educational displays, and mingled an hour before the concert began.
California Network Board Chairman Gil Ruiz opened the celebration with a warm welcome to the audience and a moving recognition of civil rights activist Cesar Chavez, iterating the principles he fought for and his unwavering commitment to non-violent protest against labor conditions for migrant farm workers.
The celebration was organized, said Ruiz, “because of the close association of Pittsburg with Cesar Chavez.”
“The man was very charismatic,” continued Ruiz, who actually met Chavez twice.
“During his struggles, he found it very comforting to come to the city of Pittsburg, and he found that support to keep the movement going,” said Ruiz, who then acknowledged Contra Costa County Supervisor Federal Glover with a special recognition award for being so supportive of Cesar Chavez and the Mariachi event.
Ruiz then recognized event Director Carmen Ochoa for her own time and dedication to making the annual Mariachi celebration a memorable event. Ofelia Dimas, who emceed the entire proceeding, then began introducing the performers, and even joined in song to accompany a few of them.
Before the musical segment of the program began, Pittsburg’s own Guillermo “Bill” Muniz, owner of the New Mecca Café, kicked it off with a rendition of “De Colores.”
Following the anthem, Mariachi Azteca, from Pittsburg, entered the stage with their stringed and brass instruments and impeccably embroidered black suits. The eight-member ensemble played brightly and festively, and was soon joined by Brentwood group Ballet Folklorico Jaracue, a team of colorfully dressed dancers who swirled their full skirts in semi-circles, creating the effect of blooming flowers.
Cantantes de Groupo Amigo, a group of vocalists, took turns singing different verses to a background of violins and trumpets.
Special guest singers included Jose Luis Guitron, Augustino G. Martinez and David Hernandez.
Visiting Mariachi groups, including Mariachi Nuevo Generacion, from Visalia, Calif. and Oakland’s Mariachi Halcones wowed the spectators with their energy and sheer talent.
Before the program’s close, Muniz, in unison with every singer, musician and audience member in the theater, joined together to sing “De Colores.”
With a program of incredible artists, both local and visiting, Pittsburg enjoyed a musical afternoon – all to honor American hero Cesar Chavez. Nothing could have been more fitting than the celebratory song, dance, laughter and recognition which took place that day.
To find out more about Cesar Chavez and the contributions he made in defending the rights of farm laborers in the 20th Century, click here.
Community Coverage by pittsburgca.net |