San Jose Hosts Inaugural Afro-Latino Festival Celebrating Cultural Roots

The inaugural Afro-Latino Festival in San Jose aims to celebrate and educate the public about the contributions of Afro-Latinos to the region's history, dating back to the founding of El Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe in 1777. Organized by the African American Heritage House, the festival will feature music and food while also addressing the often overlooked historical presence of Afro-Latinos in Silicon Valley. Susan Rigmaiden, president of the AAHH, emphasizes the importance of recognizing this cultural diversity and the complexities of Afro-Latino identity, particularly in light of historical narratives that have been simplified or ignored. The event is a reminder that Silicon Valley's heritage includes a rich tapestry of cultural influences beyond its tech industry. Ideas of representation and historical acknowledgment were also echoed in discussions at the 'Latinas in Media' event at Syracuse University, where panelists addressed barriers faced by Latina professionals in the media industry. Meanwhile, the legacy of Chicano journalist Juan Espinosa highlights the intersection of journalism, activism, and community storytelling during a pivotal time for Chicano rights.