Every year since its inception in 2005, the Latino Festival has aimed to showcase and spotlight the rich traditions, art, music and cuisine of the Latino community in Monmouth County.
And boy does it! Even Gov. Phil Murphy has stopped by to enjoy.
Lively performances of traditional music and dance, art exhibitions, craft vendors, and a wide array of delicious Latino cuisine once again filled East Main Street in September offering something for everyone.
“Over the years, the festival has played a pivotal role in dispelling stereotypes and misconceptions about the Latino community,” said Lazaro Cardenas, a founding member of the festival, adding it has provided an opportunity “to bridge cultural gaps, educate the wider community, and promote cross-cultural dialogue.”
The festival’s inception can be credited to the visionary leadership of Cardenas and Frank Argote-Freyre, who served as the director and deputy director, respectively, of the Latino Coalition of New Jersey at the time of its creation.
Their passion and commitment to promoting Latino culture led to the festival’s formation.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LATINO FESTIVAL OF MONMOUTH COUNTY
“We wanted to promote cultural awareness, foster inclusivity, and celebrate the diverse tapestry of the local Latino community,” Cardenas said, adding they were “inspired by the need to shed light on the positive contributions of Latinos in the region.”
The festival is the platform where the community can come together, share their heritage, and be recognized for their valuable impact on Monmouth County.
The initial committee – comprised of dedicated individuals – contributed significantly to the festival’s growth.
Diana Tennant, who passed away in 2020, and served as co-chair from 2012 to 2014, was a driving force behind the event, Cardenas said.
Other founding committee members included Angel Matos (co-chair from 2008 to 2012), Albert DeGracia, Ann Bagchi, Stan and Debbie Organek, Steve and Debbie Rickter, Caridad Diaz, Yeni M. Cardenas, and Mahonry Hidalgo.
With their collective efforts, the festival began to take shape, drawing the local community closer to the vibrant world of Latino culture.
Under Cardenas’ leadership, the event made its first strides toward becoming a cherished tradition. His dedication to the cause and commitment to fostering a sense of unity and pride among the Latino community laid the foundation for what was to come.
From 2008 to 2012, the festival was co-chaired by Cardenas and Angel Matos.
