United Festival Celebrates Latin American Heritage in Memphis
Memphis, TN – The annual United Festival took place at Beale Street Landing in Tom Lee Park on Sunday, bringing together the Memphis community to celebrate Latin American music, food, and culture as National Hispanic Heritage Month approaches.
After sunset, the Mighty Lights on the Hernando de Soto Bridge illuminated the evening, showcasing the flags of various Latin American countries in honor of the upcoming celebration.
CEO of La Prensa Latina, Jairo Arguijo, emphasized the festival’s purpose: “This really is to unite both the English-speaking community and Spanish-speaking community, even within our own Spanish-speaking community.” This year showcased cumbia, a traditional folk music genre from Latin America, along with dance competitions and a unique burrito eating contest.
Participant Quetzal Martinez highlighted the significance of burritos: “It takes a lot of Latino ingredients, but combines them in a way that people haven’t traditionally eaten in Mexico or any Latin American country. So it’s a really good metaphor for America, coming together and being a blend of cultures.”
Despite facing challenges such as recent immigration issues, attendees expressed pride in the contributions of the local Latino community. State Representative Gabby Salinas noted the difficult times for immigrants, but festivalgoer John Herrada celebrated Latino contributions, stating, “With Hispanic people, they make sure things grow, whether it’s buildings or community.”
Arguijo concluded, “I’m really just super proud of the people that are able to come out to enjoy this and to show our heritage to the world, to Memphis.”
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