Originally used as a pejorative term to describe Mexican Americans in the United States, “Chicano” was reclaimed and evolved into a political stance radiating pride in a shared cultural and community identity. Fast forward to today, and the Chicano Fest stands as a living testament to this spirit. Esa Roe, a Chicana rap artist and nurse from Chicago, IL, highlighted the modern nuances of being Chicano, noting the movement’s shift towards education and community involvement.
Lydia Gutierrez, CEO of Hacienda Mexican Foods and a sponsor at the event, also underscored the entrepreneurial spirit fueling their community and the interconnectedness between the vendors. Among them was Chatita Food Truck, an example of the Chicano experience. Which celebrated its soft opening by serving Hidalgo style cuisine. Rooted in a history of resilience and cultural pride, the festival showcased the continued growth and richness of the Chicano community in Detroit.
When asked about sponsoring the event, Gutierrez stated: “This event matters because it provides a space for the vendors, and for the community to come together. We want this community to grow and feel respected. It doesn’t matter where you come from, Southwest is a place that is open to everybody and we want people to feel that.”
