Arte en Chicago.com
editorial
A POINT OF VIEW UN PUNTO DE VISTA
Chicago Festivals and the Latino Community and Culture
Here we are coming to a new year of festivals in CHICAGO.
The biggest of them for the Latino community have nothing to do with arts and culture; except as large gatherings, tacos and enchiladas being part of our culture.
VIVA CHICAGO was manipulated, from the beginning to include only “popular” artistic elements imported from Latin America and Spain, leaving aside the local artist. I understand the need for numbers and to have “Big” names that will attract a crowd. Last year I called the director to let them know that the musical forms represented in the festival were not representative of our culture and, to his credit, he called me immediately. He told me that although they were interested in culture their main concern was to please the funders and to do this they had to show numbers; therefore they could not risk presenting something like classical Latin American and Spanish music, poetry or even folklore.
It is not easy to organize something so big but they never even tried to see if the community would appreciate a more complex festival that would include the magnificence and richness of our Cultura.
FIESTA DEL SOL has tried, at times, to include artist. Yet the fact that it is and has been a fundraiser for one organization creates a conflict; although, I must admit a magnificent one. I love the longevity of the Fiesta and I remember having a great time eating and finding friends; enjoying all the families gathering together. This festival is more representative of our culture; yet it has always lack the cultural element; for some reason or without any reason it has never taken of as a showcase for artist. A couple of years ago there was a tent with Maestro Oscar Romero on the head, participation was good. I hope the organizers are listening. Now that you have the numbers, the vendors: We need more Art and Culture.
For some strange reason neighborhood organizations see the Arts and Culture only as a fundraising tool; as a way to continue with the growth of their coffers and continuation of their salaries.
I know that without participation we do not have a voice.
Miguel
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