A historic celebration of arts and culture, with creative floats, music, dancing, ethnic foods, and the colorful world of the Puerto Rican diaspora within the Cleveland community.
Leader
Emmanuel Velez
Location
3690 Seymour Avenue Cleveland, OH 44113
The Puerto Rican Parade of Greater Cleveland carries a strong history of cultural awareness, pride, and education, led by a resilient community who's love for their homeland, spirit of freedom, justice, and unity have never wavered. This parade celebration has been observed by Clevelanders each summer since the late 60s. Its purpose has been to bring together the city's residents and to educate the community about the rich Puerto Rican culture. This event highlight's the cultural richness of the Clark-Fulton neighborhood and showcases colorful art displays on floats with participants wearing costumes and masks. Musicians share history as they showcase folk music and wear traditional attire. Residents have an opportunity to share cultural pride and feel a sense of unity as they line the streets and become immersed in celebration.
Residents engage in civic action as they help local students from Lincoln West High School's Global Studies beautify the Roberto Clemente Park by cleaning up rubbish and debris the day before. We advance awareness and pride for the space we all share through this element of the event. Partnering organizations have an opportunity for community engagement, dialogue, and resource sharing as they learn of the neighborhood's rich diversity.
An all day, family friendly, festival follows at the Roberto Clemente Park after the parade with live performances on a stage. Local artists lead the way by creating beautiful sidewalk murals and crafts for families to participate in. Ethnic food vendors have a multitude of options for visitors to satisfy their palates and familiarize themselves with Latin cuisine. The festival attracts many artisans and makers, and exposes residents to the history of the Puerto Rican diaspora in the US mainland.
This event will educate residents of the cultural richness and diversity among the Cleveland community. It helps to preserve the history of the Puerto Rican diaspora whom have continued to contribute to the local community's achievements for decades. We hope to further promote civic action among residents and create awareness of local assets such as the Roberto Clemente Park and it's meaningfulness to the Puerto Rican community. This awareness will encourage residents to further engage in the beautification and maintenance of their shared space. Residents and parade goers alike will be exposed to many local organizations and learn of resources that will be of benefit to them.