Honoring Mexican Hero
Today marks a celebration in Mexico, particularly in the state of Oaxaca, because national hero Benito Juarez was born there on this day in 1806. Juarez was the first Mexican president of Indian descent.
The holiday in honor of Juarez, whose lifetime roughly paralleled that of Abraham Lincoln, is little known in this country but a Highland Park cultural center is trying to change that.
The newly opened Art in the Park cultural center is sponsoring a free celebration Sunday that is similar to events being held in Oaxaca today.
“Everybody from all the regions of Oaxaca will come together to share their dances, their songs, their food and their artwork,” said Berta Torres Sosa, director of Art in the Park.
Juarez was elected president of Mexico in 1861. His term in office was interrupted by the Napoleonic takeover of Mexico in 1862 and the imposition of Archduke Maximilian as ruler. Juarez fought the French and was returned to office after Maximilian was deposed in 1867. Juarez died in 1872.
Time and Place: Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Arroyo Seco Park, 5568 Via Marisol; Pasadena Freeway at Marisol/Avenue 57 exit, Highland Park.
Information: (213) 259-0861.
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