DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) – The 4th annual Día De Los Muertos Festival in Decatur has been canceled because of safety concerns.
Organizers say this decision has been made under consideration of the national climate surrounding immigration status. They say their top priority is the safety and well being of the community.
“Our hearts are with everyone who looks forward to this beloved celebration. While this was not an easy choice, we believe it is the right one to ensure the safety and security of all participants.” Corazón y Cultura Committee Chairman Jesse Gonzalez said.
The committee will be establishing their 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, named Downtown Decatur’s Corazón y Cultura, to celebrate and share culture with the community. The committee says they will continue to strive for an inclusive space in Decatur where anyone can learn about Latino culture and see diversity in downtown.
“We are committed to making Downtown Decatur a hub of culture and community,” Communication Director at Decatur Morgan County Tourism Emma Martin said. “This pause will allow this committee to build an even stronger foundation so that our next celebration will be bigger, more inclusive and more vibrant than ever.”
Corazón y Cultura will continue to plan the yearly Día De Los Muertos celebration, in addition to more downtown events including Cinco de Mayo, Día del Grito and Posada de Navidad to create a “year-round movement of culture, connection, and opportunity for all.”
They will also award scholarships to first-generation students who will be pursuing further education.
If you have any questions, please contact Jesse Gonzalez, President-Elect of Downtown Decatur Corazón y Cultura, at [email protected].
The post ‘Not an easy choice’: Corazón y Cultura Committee cancels Decatur Día De Los Muertos Festival appeared first on WHNT.
