“It’s not an easy choice”: Corazón y Cultura committee cancels Decatur Día De Los Muertos festival

DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) – The 4th annual Día De Los Muertos festival in Decatur has been canceled due to safety concerns.

Organizers say the decision was made in consideration of the national climate surrounding immigration status. They say their top priority is the safety and well-being of the community.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who looks forward to this beloved celebration. Although this was not an easy choice, we believe it is the right choice to ensure the safety and security of all participants.” » said Jesse Gonzalez, president of the Corazón y Cultura commission.

The committee will establish its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, named Corazón y Cultura of Downtown Decatur, to celebrate and share culture with the community. The committee says it will continue to fight for an inclusive space in Decatur where everyone can learn about Latino culture and see the diversity of downtown.

“We are committed to making downtown Decatur a cultural and community center,” said Emma Martin, communications director for Decatur Morgan County Tourism. “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 annual Día De Los Muertos celebration, in addition to other 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 continue their education.

If you have any questions, please contact Jesse Gonzalez, President-Elect of Downtown Decatur Corazón y Cultura, at jesse.gonzalez@capna.org.

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