Dancers, marchers, musicians, neighbors, and fans from over 30 Latin American countries attended and participated in the Baltimore Fiesta Parade of Latino Nations around Patterson Park on Sunday, October 5. Baltimore School for the Arts visual arts junior and photojournalist for the school’s newspaper, The Muse, Fabian Perez shot his favorite parade.
“This parade is special to me because I’ve been going to it since I was a kid. It’s really important to me to see my culture and see my people show up and show off their talents and represent especially in times like these, due to the current administration, the hatred, the ICE raids going on. There has been a lot of fear in the air. I was scared that people wouldn’t show up in fear, but I was gladly wrong, this year was great as always. There were a lot of people celebrating, enjoying the food, dancing, and having fun.
Fear never takes us down and I’m glad this parade gave me a little hope and I hope it gives hope to others. I’ve been going to these parades since I was a kid and watching it grow and flourish more and more each year is something so beautiful, especially since these parades remind me and my family that we’re not alone here and that we can celebrate our culture and be proud here in Baltimore. East Baltimore has been my home since I was a kid, and as the Latino population grows, so does the festival and parade. Vendors and artists come, and Baltimore shows up. When I had just come to Baltimore and everything was new to me, this festival reminded me of home — the vibrancy in the air, the food, and the performances. It’s a really nice distraction from the problems of the world. Now I can call Baltimore my home and know that I can look forward to this amazing festival parade each year.” – Fabian Perez
