Chicago Cultural institutions continue to demonstrate a lack of understanding of Latino art and culture.
This is reflected in their choices in cultural programs and programming of events. So far they have shown a belief that Latino Culture is only what is popular. disregarding that Latino culture goes far beyond its popular manifestations to include Classical music, poetry, literature, theater.
For the last few years, the programming of events by mayor institutions and city agencies has a tendency to go into one section of the culture believing that Latinos prefer this choices: Cumbia, salsa, ranchero, folklore; ignoring altogether any fine arts, as if those are not understood, liked or preferred.
When contacted these institutions claim that their programs reflect the choices of those corporations or foundations providing the money. It has been claimed that “people choices are respected”, “This is what the Latino community likes”.
The cultural organizations “representing” Latino Culture; formed by “leaders” in positions of power but without any authority as far as culture is concerned. These organizations and individuals fall into the same point of view.
Latino Culture is more than just popular culture. There is classical music composed now and in the past by Spanish an Latin american artists there is fine art bi-dimensional and multidimensional being created; there is poetry.
The first intervention of Latino Artists at a classical far north venue was not in the classical tradition of the institution; they invited one of the”gang-cartel bandas” to perform. When approached they said: “That is what people like”.
As the year of Chicago Music get into gear it is my hope that those in charge will begin to get an education on what Latino Culture really is and that their programming choices must include fine art manifestations.
Miguel Lopez Lemus
January 8 2020