FIESTA BORICUA - La Voz del Paseo Boricua

Hundreds Participate:
1966 Division Street
Riots Commemoration
page 2
Update:
Free
Paseo Boricua
Immigration
Bilingual
Sidewalk Sale!
Movement
Gratis
page 3
page 5
DSBDA Organizes
CO-OP Humboldt Park
Farmer’s Market
on Paseo Boricua
page 8
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
www.prcc-chgo.org
[email protected]
July/August
2006
Vol. 3 • No. 4
Informing and Advocating for the Preservation of our “Pedacito de Patria” in Chicago
Hundreds Stand in Line for ‘La Estancia’
Community again proves desire to remain in Humboldt Park
Grabriela Reyes
Institute of Puerto Rican
Arts & Culture
Kicks-off Puerto
Rican Film Series
Throughout the summer the Humboldt Park
Boat House will be temporary turned into an
outdoor movie theater for the annual Puerto
Rican Film Series. Sponsored by Institute of
Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, the first film was
hosted on July 15. “Queridos Reyes Magos,”
directed by Paloma Suau, tells a story of a man
who returned to the Island of Puerto Rico
after 20 years. The movie includes many music
interpretations of Latin artists and dances,
including merengue, reggae, ballads and rock.
IPRAC... continued on page 2
Alderman Billy Ocasio & Puerto Rican Cultural Center
As the story goes, three short years ago a
developer bought the huge lot on the southeast
corner of Division and California with plans
to develop high-priced condominums.
Immediately, Alderman Billy Ocasio, an
aggressive champion for the residents of the
26th Ward, along with various community
groups and residents, fought to return
ownership of the lot to the community.
Today construction is underway, yet what
is being built is not a condo complex, but
Bickerdike’s “La Estancia,” which will provide
57 beautiful, affordable rental units on three
locations along Division Street. Instead of
symbolizing displacement as the developer’s
plans would have, “La Estancia” will
become a symbol of hope and possibilities
for longtime residents of Humboldt Park.
Humboldt Park Resident
Ana Rosa Rivera waits in line for
new apartments on Division Street
New Mural Documents
Boricua History in Chicago
Artist Martín Soto transforms
corner of Division and Washtenaw
Xavier “Xavi” Luis Burgos
With anticipation about “La Estancia”
circling El Barrio, residents began to form
a line a day early in order to ensure they
would receive a pre-application.On Friday
June 23, people began congregating on
the corner of Rockwell Street and North
Avenue, equipped with lawn chairs, water,
and boomboxes. Those who stood in
line, many from 1pm - 9am the following
morning, were single mothers and fathers,
senior citizens, and young couples.
La Estancia... continued on page 9
Upcoming Events in Puerto Rican Chicago
Join us in the Barrio!
25th CocineroS
Unidos Festival
Enjoy Puerto Rican music, food, and culture!
Sunday, August 6
12pm - 9pm • Humboldt Park
The Puerto Rican Federal Affairs
Administration (PRFAA) invites you to:
5th PRESENCIA
PUERTORRIQUEÑA
Food, Puerto Rican Artisanry,
Culture and much more!
Mon., Aug. 28 through Fri., Sept. 1
FIESTA
BORICUA
13
th
‘Bandera a Bandera’
Sunday, Sept. 3
Paseo Boricua • 12pm - 7pm
Daley Plaza • 9am – 5pm
For more info: 312-372-9377
Through the warm rain and
the blistering rays of the sun,
the residents of Paseo Boricua
walk daily past Division and
Washtenaw to see what new
shade has been added or what
new image has been painted on a
mural made to last the elements.
As young children point at
the luminescent maga tree and
fast-talking teenagers scan the
colorful sketches of marching
Boricuas and a burning cop car,
their history is reborn before
their eyes.
The 40th Anniversary of the 1966
Division Street Riots passed
this June 12 and among many
commemorative activities, the
Puerto Rican Cultural Center
and Batey Urbano, with support
from Building Community
through the Arts (BCA),
FIRST TIME IN CHICAGO!
National Puerto Rican Coalition (NPRC)
2006 Public Policy
Conference
Wed., Aug. 30 – Fri., Sept. 1
The Hilton Chicago
For more info: visit www.bateylink.org
or call 888-749-6772 (toll-free) (SEE PAGE 11)
New Mural on Paseo Boricua... continued on page 4
¡Aquí Vivimos, Aquí Luchamos y Aquí Nos Quedamos! • Support Paseo Boricua!
Hundreds Commemorate 40th Anniversary of the 1966 Division Street Riots:
Community Reclaims its history through cultural explosion
Michael Rodríguez Muñiz and Christian Martir
Most urban uprisings in the United States, above all
those that exploded during the tumultuous 1960s, often
decimated the very communities which staged them. Few
communities were able to survive these violent yet politically
potent expressions. Chicago’s Puerto Rican
community, an even more rare specimen,
has not only survived two rebellions (1966
and 1977), but has become a vibrant center
of community-building and Puerto Rican
national affirmation. Division Street in
Humboldt Park is today Paseo Boricua,
a pedacito de patria in the Puerto Rican
Diaspora.
Forty years after its first rebellion, members of
Chicago’s Puerto Rican community organized
a weeklong series of events to commemorate
the 1966 Division Street Riots. The Riots
are widely considered the catalyst for this
community’s trajectory of resistance, which
has produced everything from elected officials
to revolutionaries. The commemorative events,
primarily organized by the Juan Antonio
Corretjer Puerto Rican Cultural Center and
the Division Street Business Development
Association, from June 12 to June 18, affirmed
the presence and persistence of Puerto Ricans
in the “Windy City.”
The commemoration began with a special
press conference hosted by the Puerto Rican
Agenda, a committee of community leaders
committed to preserving and stabilizing
Chicago’s Puerto Rican barrio. The press
conference, well attended by mainstream
press, saw event organizers proclaim the
week’s theme: “From Memories of Resistance
to Building a Community of Hope.”
Afterwards, over 120 people gathered
at the Paseo Boricua branch of Banco
Popular for the opening of a pictorial
exhibition based on the major events
and institutions established over the
last four decades. Upon leaving the
opening, those present were invited
to visit the exhibition’s two remaining
sites, Café Teatro Batey Urbano and
the Teresa Roldán Apartments on
Paseo Boricua.
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
The following day, June 13, the
message of resistance and hope came
in the form of poetry and spoken word. Before a capacity
crowd at Café Teatro Batey Urbano, several generations of
Puerto Rican poets passionately expressed the harsh reality
faced by Puerto Ricans in Chicago, as well as their resilience.
Poets included longtime community activist Pablo Medina,
Eduardo Arocho, Judy Diaz, Matt Rodríguez, Janeida Rivera,
Melissa Cintrón, Jovannie “DVS” Vargas, Michael Reyes,
among others. The encounter, which moved a number of
participants to tears, was followed by a lively Bombazo at
2
¿Qué Pasó?
in Boricua History
To Return Next Month!!!
the Casita de Don Pedro with Africaribe, Nuestro Tambo,
and Grupo Yuba.
The week’s events continued with a cultural program on June
14. In this event, Chicago’s Puerto Ricans, a
proud and creative people, celebrated their
legacy of struggle with the commencement of a
new mural by local Puerto Rican artist Martín
Soto. The eye-catching mural, located on the
corner of Division Street and Washtenaw
Street, charts the history of Puerto Ricans in
Chicago. The event also featured a presentation
about the new Paseo Boricua Mosaic project,
which will have the planters adorned with the
78 municipalities of Puerto Rico in mosaic
form. Community members and onlookers
were then treated to an energetic preview of
the first theatric production about the 1966
Division Street Riots, titled “Spark.”
On Thursday, June 15, Batey Urbano became
more than the site of an event, but its very focus.
Over 60 people attended an activity dedicated
to a chapter about Batey Urbano published
in the new book “Beyond Resistance! Youth
Activism and Community Change: New
Democratic Possibilities for Practice and Policy
for America’s Youth.” The chapter, authored
by Dr. Nilda Flores-Gonzalez, and graduate
students Matt Rodríguez and Michael
Rodríguez Muñiz, explores the use of hiphop in Batey Urbano to engage and politicize
barrio youth. The two-part event, which
included a reception and book signing at
Quijote Bookstore and a special presentation
at Batey Urbano, which counted on the
presence of Beyond Resistance editor, Dr.
Julio Cammarota, a Puerto Rican professor at
the University of Arizona.
To kick-off the weekend, Friday, June
16 marked the commencement of the
“Community as Intellectual Space”
Symposium, which was sponsored by
the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign (UIUC) and the Puerto
Rican Cultural Center (PRCC).
The program began with remarks
by Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez,
Alderman Billy Ocasio, and Jose E.
Lopez, executive director of the PRCC.
Their heart-felt stories of their personal
and political experiences as Puerto Ricans growing up in
Chicago visibly resonated with almost 300 people present.
Special comments were also given by John Unsworth, Dean
of the Graduate School of Library and Information Science
at UIUC, who announced the initiation of a graduate
program in Community Informatics, a collaboration of
UIUC and the PRCC.
As this historic night continued, those in attendance were
Boricua Films in the Park...
continued from front page
The Puerto Rican Film Series will run every
other Saturday through August 26, 8 p.m.
at the Humboldt Park Boat House, 1440 N.
Sacramento Blvd. This event is free and visitors
are invited to bring blankets, folding chairs and
picnics to enjoy an evening under the stars.
The second film (July 29), “Puerto Rican: Art
and Identity” by Sonia Fritz, explores important
figures who determine the characteristics and
subject matter that inspire the creators, painters,
graphic artists, sculptures and ceramic artists
who have contributed to the development of a
national conscience.
This video combines illustrations of hundreds
of art pieces and interviews of a dozen major
contemporary artists and commentaries by art
critics, revealing the artists’ concern for the
people, culture and natural beauty of Puerto
Rico as well as the relationship of their work to
social and political events.
The next film (August 12) is a compilation of
short documentaries directed by Sonia Fritz
dealing with different women’s issues throughout
history and into contemporary times. The titles
include: “Luisa Capetillo: Passion for Justice”,
“Nightstand,” “Sweet Nightmare” and “Torn
Hair.”
The final film (August 26), titled “Tainos: The
Last Tribe,” directed by Benjamin López, is
about an archeology expedition which finds a
hidden Taino tribe in the mountains of Puerto
Rico. Mysterious events proceed to unleash a
surprising twist of full action.
Along with IPRAC, the Puerto Rican Film
Series is presented in collaboration with the
Chicago Park District and Division Street
Business Development Association (DSBDA)
and sponsored by the Illinois Arts Council and
the City of Chicago Department of Cultural
Affairs.
For more information please contact IPRAC at
773-486-8345 or visit www.iprac.org.
LA VOZ DEL PASEO BORICUA
is interested to hear what you
think... about this newspaper,
our community, and being
Puerto Rican!
Please send letters and
comments to [email protected].
Recap: 40th Anniversary Commemoration... continued on page 12
Editor: Michael Rodríguez Muñiz
Production Manager: Jodene Velázquez
Designers: Michael Rodríguez Muñiz and Alejandro L. Molina
Staff: Jonathan Rivera Lizardi, Jonathan Rosa, Xavier Burgos
Saúl Meléndez, Melissa Cintrón, Nilmari Donate Ruíz, Ivette Feliciano
Translations and proofing: Agnes Justiniano, Madeline Troche-Rodríguez,
Norma Torres, Juan Carlos Giménez, Lorna Morales Amill, Gloria Ortíz
La Voz Del Paseo Boricua
is a grassroots newsletter of the Juan Antonio
Corretjer Puerto Rican Cultural Center. We
work in collaboration with various community
organizations to stabilize and strengthen the
Puerto Rican community in Humboldt Park.
During this historic moment, our objective
is to provide our community with regular
and reliable information, news, and updates
about programs, events, and ongoing
developments.
La Voz Del Paseo Boricua reserves the right to
publish at its discretion.
Contact us at: [email protected]
Support in Style: Paseo Boricua Sidewalk Sale!
Here is a list of all of the shops
located on Paseo Boricua that
will help you make this summer’s
events impressive to your guests
and easy on your wallet:
Ivette Feliciano
If there is one thing Boricuas in
Chicago are known for, it is our great
sense of knowing how to have a good
time when those hot summer months
roll around. Despite all the fun, all
those parties can become hard on your
pocketbook. No need to worry! On
Saturday, August 12 you can visit the
Paseo Boricua Sidewalk Sale between
12pm and 4pm and get everything
you need to look good, feel great, and
throw the best block parties in the
summer. Here are some helpful tips
on how you can save tons of money
and support Paseo Boricua businesses
in style!
Rather than treating Papi to that
new tie you were thinking of adding
to his collection, why not get him a
handmade guayabera from Quijote
Bookstore or the CD collection of his
favorite trio at Lily’s Record Shop.
Want to spruce up your backyard
before that next outdoor bombazo you
are going to throw? Stop by Flores
Del Amor and pick up some pretty
flowers and candles to brighten up the
place. Lastly, don’t worry about what
you’ll wear, just visit the sale racks at
Latina Soul, XcluXive DeXign, and
Shoe Fetish and stop everyone in their
tracks when they see that one of a
kind outfit, only available on Division
Street, our “pedacito de patria.”
Instead of going to Costco for your
barbecue supplies, visit La Municipal
for fresh sofrito and meat or the weekly
Farmers Market at El Conuco for
delicious veggies for your next picnic.
Pick up a bottle of your favorite wine
at Paco’s Vino Fino and be the hit
of that party you were invited to this
weekend.
For more information on the Paseo
Boricua Street Sales, please call Ivette
Feliciano at 773.782.0454. Sponsored
by DSBDA, PRCC, Growing Pride,
Co-op Humboldt Park, ISLAA.
Alderman Ocasio leads
Operation CLEAN in
West Humboldt Park
40 Years of Resistance in Puerto Rican Chicago
Highlighted in the Newspaper Claridad
Xavier “Xavi” Luis Burgos
On Friday, July 7, Alderman
Billy Ocasio, CAPS, the 14th
district Police Department,
the Department of Streets
and Sanitation, Department
of
Transportation,
and
various community leaders
and residents gathered on
the corner of Spaulding
and Division Street to
announce the culmination of
Operation CLEAN, a week
long concentrated cleanup blitz focusing on encouraging more community participation with city
departments.
City workers brought graffiti blasters, tow trucks and garbage trucks into
the target area spanning from Division Street to North Avenue and from
Kedzie to Central Park fixing traffic lights, removing abandoned cars and
unwanted litter, trimming trees and eliminating graffiti. During the weeklong
operation they addressed 310 service requests from residents of the area.
The staff of La Voz del Paseo Boricua would
like to humbly thank Claridad– the newspaper
of the Puerto Rican nation–
for continuing to recognize,
as it has done for decades,
that the borders of Puerto
Rico extends beyond our
beloved island.
“From
the
Boricua
community in the U.S.,
we [Puerto Ricans on the
island] can learn a lot…. It
does not matter in which
place we are pushed to live,
we are [all] Puerto Rican and
like the saying goes, we are
one nation” writes Claridad
staff reporter Alida Millán Ferrer introducing
the periodical’s June 15-21 “En Rojo” section.
Through the pages of this progressive
newspaper, Paseo Boricua’s monumental
This has been the 4 operation of this kind conducted in the 26 Ward this
year.
th
2458 W. Division Street
773/252.5520
Mon-Fri, 7:30am-3pm • Sat, 7:30am-3:30pm • Sun, 9am-2pm
• Experience the only Puerto Rican Breakfast
buffet in Chicago (Every Sunday from 9am – 2pm)
• Delicious, daily lunch specials
• Space available for Private Parties
Come enjoy great food and company
in the heart of Chicago’s Puerto Rican community!
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
Alderman Ocasio was very pleased with the outcome of the operation
stating “On behalf of the West Humboldt Park Community I would like
to thank the city workers as well as the 14th district police department for
participating in this important cleanup. It is refreshing to see that we can all
work together to ensure safer conditions for our children and improve the
quality of life in our community. Operation CLEAN in the West Humboldt
Park Community has been a tremendous success.”
flags were not only colorfully introduced
to the island, but space was provided for
commemoration of the
1966 Division Street Riots,
whereby our community
highlighted the struggles,
achievements, and hopes
of Chicago’s Puerto Rican
community. Some doubt
the
“puertorriqueñidad”
of the Diaspora, but
Claridad continues to
foment a dialogue and
sense of resistance among
the Puerto Rican nation
of eight million. For its
commitment and support
of our community, La Voz
del Paseo Boricua and the Juan Antonio
Corretjer Puerto Rican Cultural Center will
be eternally grateful.
Puerto Rican Breakfast
& Lunch Restaurant
Commander Salvador Avila of the 14th Police District also led a roll call on
the corner of Division and Spaulding where officers congregated to report
for duty, drawing attention to the notable police force that patrols the area
with the intention of deterring criminal activity.
th
Hook Me Up, Inc – 2450 W. Division
Latina Soul – 2515 W. Division
Paseo Boricua Grocery
and Deli – 2706 W. Division
El Quijote Book Store – 2546 W. Division
Luz a la Familia Bookstore – 2425 W. Division
Windy City Comics – 2649 W. Division
Botanica Victoria – 2510 W. Division
Galeria Cuca – 2701 W. Division
Family Dollar – 2700 W. Division
Flores del Amor – 2611 W. Division
La Municipal Supermarket – 2559 W. Division
La Nueva Boriqueña, Inc. – 2500 W. Division
Paco’s Vino Fino Liquors – 2558 W. Division
Yauco Food and Liquor – 2744 W. Division
Joe’s Hardware – 2659 W. Division
Mario & Cesar’s Jewelry – 2659 W. Division
Lily’s Record Shop – 2733 W. Division
Shoe Fetish – 2647 W. Division
XcluXive DeXign – 2646 W. Division
3
Melissa Cintrón
‘Juventud del Ambiente Boricua’
New Group for
LGBT Youth forms
on Paseo Boricua
Janeida Rivera
Paseo Boricua is now the home of a new group known
as Juventud del Ambiente Boricua (J.A.B). J.A.B was
founded in February of 2006 by a group of young
lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)
Puerto Rican students and youth of the community.
These youth, 15- 24 years of age, all sought to attain
a common goal: to provide Puerto Rican/Latin@
LGBT youth the space necessary to grow, share,
and support one another within the Humboldt Park
Community.
According to J.A.B founder, Melissa Cintrón, “this
group offers an alternative space for our community,
as opposed to spaces (outside of our community)
that are obviously not accessible or inept to provide
for us, but most importantly completely incapable of
relating to our realities.”
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
Batey Urbano, in staying honest with its commendable
“no racist, sexist or homophobic language or acts”
policy has provided J.A.B its venue to host one event
per month. The outcome of these events motivated
Juventud del Ambiente to put together an event that
not only they would be proud of organizing, but would
benefit the community as a whole. The suggestion
emerged to have a Puerto Rican themed event on
June 18, and thanks to a collaboration with Orlando
Reyes, Vice-President of Project Vida and Promoter
of Club Dulce (431 N. Wells), a successful, vibrant
affair ensued to raise money for the Juan Antonio
Corretjer Puerto Rican Cultural Center (PRCC).
4
“Noche de Encanto” the fundraiser’s theme,
encouraged cultural and generational gaps to be
filled, while youth and adults alike danced the night
away to rhythm of Willie Colón and “cha cha’d real
smooth” reminiscent of the electric slide. Puerto
Rican youth not only had a safe environment to
socialize and celebrate their commonalities in terms
of sexuality and nationality, but also helped raise
almost 800 dollars, not including raffle ticket sales.
Paseo Boricua businesses Mario and Caesar’s jewelry,
XcluXive DeXign, and La Bruquena enthusiastically
sponsored raffle ticket prizes to contribute J.A.B’S
efforts in raising a substantial donation for the PRCC,
in turn supporting the preservation of our Puerto
Rican community, Humboldt Park.
For more information on Juventud del Ambiente and
or upcoming events, please contact: Janeida Rivera at
773.342-8023.
The stage, adorned with chipped
brick, concrete walls, rusty fences and
police barricades, recreated a feel of
the cold dilapidated ghetto this once
was. People began to
pour into the newly
acquired
building
of the Puerto Rican
Cultural
Center
(2700 W. Haddon),
packing the pews of
what was a church,
with
over
200
people. “The Spark”
premiered on June 18
as the closing event
of the “Community
as
Intellectual
Space” Symposium,
which celebrated and
examined the achievements made
since the 1966 Division Street Riots
occurred.
“The Spark,” written and directed
by the legendary, internationally
known poet, Tato Laviera, captures
the essence of the confusion and
anger Puerto Ricans experienced
here in Chicago forty years ago.
The discrimination Puerto Ricans
endured in schools, on the streets
by racist police, while searching for
decent housing, among other issues,
led to an awakening that shifted
complacent minds to agents of social
change.
The 1966 Division Street Riots were a
catalyst for community involvement,
development and hope. They united
many Puerto Ricans that had been
exploited and discouraged, beginning
a process of community action and
organization.
At the end of the show, there was a
discussion in which many told their
own emotional accounts of their
participation in, or their linkage to,
the Riots. Cast member Janeida Rivera
shared how her grandparents were a
part of the riots and explained how
it had never occurred to her to ask
her grandfather about that period.
While visiting with him, she casually
mentioned that she is in a play about
the riots and it brought about an
interesting conversation. At the end,
they both had a new appreciation for
the work being done to preserve this
community.
“Being in the play has given me a
chance to share memories with my
family that I didn’t think I would
have an opportunity to do. We are
now building on the foundation that
my grandparents and their generation
laid down for us, ” Rivera said.
When asked how it felt to write a
play with such a large significance for
our Puerto Rican community here
in Chicago, Laviera replied, “I was
so enthused and excited that in one
Tato Laviera
“The Spark” Strikes Chord in
Community’s Collective Memory
month we were able to put on the play
after only two weeks of workshops.
It was not done for, but with this
community. The characters for this
play were drawn from
the cooperation and
communication from
the actors and other
members [of the
community]. It was in
conjunction from the
people through me.
It’s collective theatre.
It’s not from me, it’s
from us.”
The cast, Jose Rivera,
16, Myra Rodriguez,
20, Janeida Rivera,
20, Xavier Burgos,
20, Melissa Cintron, 24, Jovannie
Vargas, 24, and Michael Reyes, 26,
are a group of students, community
residents, youth organizers and
first time actors, who all committed
their time and talents to the project
with no monetary compensation.
They volunteered because of the
importance of commemorating the
1966 Division Street Riots, the pride
they have in their community and
also to extend a token of appreciation
to those that broke through the fog of
subordination, achieving the advances
that have been made since. The
theatre group was formed as a tool
to address issues in the community,
affirm our Puerto Rican culture, as
well as entertainment.
For more information, please call
Café Teatro Batey Urbano at (773)3421714.
New Mural on Paseo Boricua... continued from front page
commissioned a new mural. This mural, which will be one
of the largest Puerto Rican murals in the city, artistically
documents our community’s struggles and achievements
since the Riots. Commissioned to the
task was the innovative Puerto Rican
artist, Martín Soto, who has worked
with students, community residents
and Paseo Boricua supporters to
complete the 100ft. x 25ft. mural.
A Chicago native with a studio in the
Zhou B. Art Center in Bridgeport,
Soto studied at Noyes Cultural Arts
Center in Evanston, the School of the
Art Institute of Chicago, and with
renowned Puerto Rican artist Juan
Sanchez at Hunter College in New
York City. Although he has exhibited his art throughout
the country, a strong connection exists between him and
Paseo Boricua. Years ago, he taught at Dr. Pedro Albizu
Campos High School and he also created relief murals
for both Coco’s Restaurant and at the Humboldt Park
Armory.
With an important mural being painted by a valuable
community artist, Paseo Boricua - Humboldt Park is
eagerly awaiting for the final stroke of the paint brush.
Public art truly is the art of the people.
For our community, public art is used
as a tool in which everyday residents
can interpret the turbulent history,
the dual realities, and the bright
hopes that they have for themselves as
a community and as Puerto Ricans in
the Diaspora. Murals are the medium
in which our community aesthetically
claims space in a land where space is
becoming ever more valuable without
regard for those living in those
spaces. Thanks to the commitment
of the Puerto Rican Cultural Center
to preserving the Puerto Rican community and Martín
Soto’s aesthetic vision, Paseo Boricua can continue the
tradition of producing a mural every year and further
stand for the resistance it is known for.
New York Mets’ Carlos Delgado
Tours Paseo Boricua
UPDATE: Immigration Movement
On Sunday, July 16, over a warm bowl
of Nellie’s Puerto Rican Restaurant’s
famous “avena de coco,” New York
Mets’ firstbaseman Carlos Delgado
enjoyed breakfast with a number of
community leaders and residents.
Immigration Study Reveals Marchers Equal Electoral Power
Among those present was Alderman
Billy Ocasio, Lourdes Lugo, Director
of the Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos
Puerto Rican High School, and
Lorna Amill, Executive Director
of the Puerto Rican Chamber of
Commerce. The special visit was
followed by a tour of Paseo Boricua
and the Juan Antonio Corretjer by
PRCC Executive Director, José E.
López.
“Division Street Princess”
Visits Paseo Boricua Apartments
Author Elaine Soloway, who recently
wrote The Division Street Princess
(Syren Book Company), visited
Thursday, July 20. In this work, she
describes her life growing up in a
three bedroom apartment above
her father’s store on the corner of
Division Street and Campbell, where
now the old San Juan-styled Teresa
Roldán Paseo Boricua Apartments
stands.
During her visit, Soloway met with
various community leaders including
Hipolito Roldán, Executive Director
of Hispanic Housing, who built
the beautiful five story building,
which provides affordable housing
for the near elderly. Also present
was Alderman Billy Ocasio of the
26th Ward, Enrique Salgado, Jr.,
Executive Director of the Division
Street
Business
Development
Association (DSBDA), and José E.
López, Executive Director of the
Puerto Rican Cultural Center, as well
as a number of building residents.
It was an engaging and thought
provoking
discussion
between
the lived experience of a Jewish
immigrant woman and that of the
Puerto Rican residents, who have
come to call Division Street home
over the last 40 years.
Alderman Ocasio hopes to building
on this dialogue by inviting the
author to the 10th anniversary of
the opening of the Humboldt Park
Library, one of the many projects he
has spearheaded since taking office
in 1993.
Apartments Available
Interested in Living on Paseo Boricua?
2515 W. Division(773) 297-4131
2Bd Rm
$825.00
2606 W. Division(773) 481-0448
2 Bd Rm
Carpeting, Fridge & Stove (Must Pay Heat)
$800.00
2733 W. Division(773) 252-7008
Tenant Pays Utilities
$900.00
2725 W. Division (773) 252-7008
2609 W. Division(773) 230-6467
Tenant Pays Utilities
2648 W. Division(773) 520-5035
3 Bd Rm
Jodene Velázquez
On July 17, the general findings of a survey conducted on
participants of the May 1 mega-march was made public. During
a press conference– in a capacity filled room– at the University of
Illinois at Chicago, Dr. Nilda Flores-Gonzalez of the Immigration
Mobilization research project, discussed the characteristics,
behaviors of march participants, data which challenges popular
myths about immigrants. Contrary to news reports on the May 1
mobilization, the study shows that 73% of the marchers were US
citizens, which is expected to translate into electoral power in the
upcoming November elections.
Dr. Nilda Flores-González
In terms of policy positions,
71% of the marchers favor
amnesty for undocumented
immigrants regardless of
how long they have been
in the US. These results
are indicative of the shift
in perspective for Latinos
in Chicago, who are now
saying, “hoy marchamos,
Emma Lozano,
mañana votamos.” (“Today
Centro
Sin Fronteras
we March, Tomorrow we
Vote”) Congressman Luis
V. Gutiérrez, who flew in to attend the conference,
made it clear to the media that he will continue to
struggle for the rights of undocumented immigrants
until there is just immigration reform.
Thousands Call for Moratorium of
Deportations:
Congressman Luis V. Gutiérrez
Over 50,000 people gathered, including a
contingent from the Puerto Rican Cultural
Center and Batey Urbano in solidarity,
to march from Union Park to Grant
Park to say, “No to Deportations, Yes to
Legalization.” This is a response to the
raids that have occurred, affecting 26 IFCO
workers who are now facing deportation
on July 31. Centro Sin Fronteras and the
popular radio personality “El Pistolero”,
the main organizers of this march along
Batey Urbano Youth Marching in Solidarity
with a number of other organizations,
are calling for a moratorium on raids, deportations and sanctions on employers. As Emma
Lozano stated, “it doesn’t make any sense for there to be a moratorium if they deport the same
people that are trying to become legalized. It is hypocrisy at its highest and we need to stand
up and speak for those who are voiceless.” Future marches are already in the plans for these
organizations, who are fighting relentlessly to bring national attention to the violation of human
rights this country is exercising because, “No Human Being is Illegal.” Despite the hot weather,
Centro Sin Fronteras and “El Pistolero” demostrated their power of convocation.
1 Bd Rm $600.00
3 Bd Rm $800.00
2 Bd Rm
$650.00
2647 W. Division(773) 307-7346
No utilities
3 Bd Rm $900.00
For more information, please contact: 773/307-7346.
14KT. Gold Jewelry Repair
We Buy Gold
Custom Made Jewelry
Silver Sale & Watch Repair
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
2622 W. Division(847) 791-3900 1 Bd Rm $700.00
sub-lease includes: washer dryer, dishwasher, central air/heat,
tenant pays own utilities
5
Pick up La Voz del Paseo Boricua
at the following locations:
Division Street (Paseo Boricua)
Pagan Liquor • 3251 W. Division
Sabana Grande • 3217 W. Division
Humboldt Park Auto and Tire • 2823 W. Division
Yauco Foods • 2744 W. Division
Latin American Restaurant • 2743 W. Division
Noble Realty • 2734 W. Division
Lily’s Records • 2733 W. Division
Best Sub • 2729 W. Division
Bruquena Restaurant • 2726 W. Division
The Dance Academy of Salsa • 2725 W. Division
Coco’s Restaurant • 2723 W. Division
Tropical Hair Design • 2721 W. Division
Banco Popular • 2720 W. Division
Jayuya Barber Shop • 2719 W. Division
Salon de Belleza de PR • 2714 W. Division
Paseo Boricua Grocery • 2706 W. Division
Galeria Cuca • 2701 W. Division
Family Dollar • 2700 W.Division
Joe’s Ace Hardware • 2659 W. Division
Sportz Kutz • 2653 W. Division
Bubble Land • 2650 W. Division
Windy City Comics • 2649 W. Division
Shoe Fetish • 2647 W. Division
XcluXive DeXign • 2646 W. Division
San Pablo Medical Center • 2641 W. Division
Café Colao • 2638 W. Division
Division Oral Surgery • 2632 W. Division
Mario’s and Cesar’s Jewelry • 2629 W. Division
Mi Cantina • 2628 W. Division
Café Teatro Batey Urbano • 2620 W. Division
Pan American Movers • 2612 W. Division
Floristeria Flores de Amor • 2611 W. Division
La Municipal Supermarket • 2559 W. Division
Vino Fino Liquors • 2558 W. Division
Luquillo Barber Shop • 2552 W. Division
El Quijote • 2546 W. Division
Mas O Menos • 2539 W. Division
Montalvo Electric • 2531 W. Division
Pa Pa’s Cache Sabroso • 2517 W. Division
Latina Soul • 2515 W. Division
Botanica Victoria • 2510 W. Division
YGO Salon • 2508 W. Division
La Nueva Borinquena Foods • 2500 W. Division
Nellie’s Restaurant • 2458 W. Division
El Paisano • 2429 W. Division
Luz a la Familia • 2425 W. Division
North Avenue
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
Northwestern Deli • 2349 W. North
La Junquena • 2501 W. North
Ibis Restaurant • 2509 W. North
Luna Food Mart • 2525 W. North
Family Health Center • 2556 W. North
Yabucoa • 2600 W. North
Las Villas Bakery • 2608 W North
El Mamey Lounge • 2645 W. North
Wright Wood Auto Parts • 2647 W. North
Ricky’s General Store Botanica • 2657 W. North
Tip Top Liquors • 2700 W. North
6
Family Dollar • 2720 W. North
Cermak Produce • 2731 W. North
J. Discount Pharmacy • 2735 W. North
T & C Meat Market • 2812 W. North
Migdalia’s Beauty • 3134 W. North
La Fama • 3207 W. North
Roeser’s Bakery • 3216 W. North
Fascination Hair Salon • 3250 W. North
Latino Food Produce & Grocery • 3312 W. North
Tropical Taste Restaurant • 3330 N. North
Disco Sound • 3332 N. North
San Jose Bakery • 3415 W. North
Botanica Yemaya • 3505 W. North
Lissette Flower Shop • 3511 W. North
El Vigia • 3612 W. North
Latin Grocery and Liquor • 3800 W. North
Sabor Latino • 3810 W. North
La Isla Pequeña • 3910 W. North
La Centra • 3911 W. North
Armitage Avenue
El Mundo Travel • 2904 W. Armitage
Joe’s Hair Studio • 3005 W. Armitage
Plaza Food Mart • 3011 W. Armitage
Humboldt Liquor • 3013 W. Armitage
A+M Television • 3047 W. Armitage
San Juan Star Travel • 3066 W. Armitage
La Bomba Restaurant • 3221 W. Armitage
Armitage Family Practice • 3224 W. Armitage
Ace of Fades • 3231 W. Armitage
Caribe Funeral Home • 3314 W. Armitage
Pan De Vida • 3333 W. Armitage
Armitage Produce • 3334 W. Armitage
Tianguis Grocery Store • 3552 W. Armitage
New Utuado Barber Shop • 3741 W. Artimage
Arco Iris • 4007 W. Armitage
Music Express • 4048 W. Armitage
Ace of Fades • 3231 W. Armitage
Fullerton Avenue
Cocina Boricua • 2420 W. Fullerton
Hector’s Barber Shop • 2547 W Fullerton Ave
Albany Foods • 3048 W. Fullerton
Sabor Latino • 3400 W. Fullerton
Chicago Style Music • 3442 W. Fullerton
Dimartino’s Restaurant • 3503 W. Fullerton
Ideal Furniture • 3635 W. Fullerton
Tania • 3704 W. Fullerton
Botanica • 3715 W. Fullerton
Milwaukee Avenue
Los Cuatro Caminos • 2303 N. Milwaukee
China Buffet • 2531-39 N. Milwaukee
Boricua Barbershop • 2545 N. Milwaukee
Disco City • 2632 N. Milwaukee
The Pump Room • 2634 N. Milwaukee
Da Hot Zone • 2636 N. Milwaukee
Kedzie Boulevard
Puerto Rico Cafeteria • 1532 N. Kedzie
PAI Barber Shop • 1608 N. Kedzie
Interested in advertising your business in the pages of
La Voz del Paseo Boricua?
Contact us for information on our affordable rates!
773.342-8023 or [email protected]
Nieves Food Mart • 2501 N. Kedzie
Banco Popular • 2525 N. Kedzie Blvd.
Western Avenue
El Rinconcito Sabroso • 1304 N. Western
LuckyFood & Smoke Shop • 1358 N. Western
Carlos Food & Liquor • 1401 N. Western
El Jibaro Comida P.R • 1432 N. Western
Margaritas Hair Design • 1925 N. Western
Quizpes Fashion • 2242 N. Western
California Street
A & D Unisex Salon • 1001 N. California
Gonzalez Tire Shop • 1011 N. California
Silvia Grocery • 1026 N. California
Maiz Restaurant • 1041 N. California
Adams and Son • 1057 N. California
T & J Enterprise • 1133 N. California
Garcia Tire and Auto • 1211 N. California
Manna for Life • 1664 N. California
Borinquen Restaurant • 1720 N California
Mini Foods & Liquors • 1900 N. California
Soto Tire Shop • 1901 N. California
Los Artistas Food & Liquor • 2001 N. California
noFriction Café • 2023 N. California
Metro. Financial Solutions • 2023 N. California
California Grocery • 2058 N. California
Pancho Cafeteria • 2200 N. California
Digame • 2504 N. California
Kimball Street
La Palma Restaurant • 1340 N. Kimball
El Secreto Escondido • 1656 N. Kimball
Food Mart • 1700 N. Kimball
Amigos Food • 1859 N. Kimball
Brisa Foods • 2156 N. Kimball
Other Locations
Loss Leader • 1000 N. Mozart
Homan Food • 3358 W. Lemoyne
La Nueva Puerto Rico • 2559 W. Augusta
Diana’s Food Restaurant • 1000 W. Francisco
Lucy’s Food Store • 3500 W. Hirsch
Urban Cuts • 5344 W. Diversey
Frank’s BarberShop • 2405 W. Homer St
La Voz Hispana • 2514 N Laramie
Community Organizations
Bickerdike Redevelopment • 2550 W. North
DSBDA • 2459 W. Division
Puerto Rican Cultural Center • 2739-41 W. Division
Casa Puertorriqueña • 1237 N. California
Casa Central • 1343 N. California
Las Moradas • 1307-25 N. California
Association House • 1116 N. Kedzie
Hispanic Housing • 1402 N. Kedzie
McCormick YMCA • 1834 N. Lawndale
Humboldt Park Field House • 1400 N. Sacramento
Humboldt Park Libary • 1605 N. Troy
YMCA H.P. Head Start • 1626 N. California
Universities
Humboldt Park Vocational Center
University of Illinois at Chicago
Northeastern Illinois University
University of Chicago
DePaul University
Malcolm X College
National Boricua Human Rights Network (NBHRN) Box 112, 2038 W. Chicago Avenue, Chicago IL 60622
July 2006 • [email protected] • www.boricuahumanrights.org • www.presospoliticospuertorriquenos.org
25 days for 25 years: the spirit of
Oscar López Rivera in Chicago
On May 29, the National Boricua
Human Rights Network and Batey
Urbano co-sponsored an event
to commemorate the 25th year
of incarceration of Oscar López
Rivera, Puerto Rican political prisoner. The event was also the culminating activity for the 25 Days
for 25 Years exhibit, an installation where 25 community members and young activists spent 24
hours each in a prison cell.
At the event, participants in the
installation reflected on the experience of spending a day in the
cell. Lourdes Lugo, Oscar’s niece,
provided a moving account of her
visits to her uncle over the last
quarter decade. Matt Rodríguez,
a Batey collective member closed
out the event with a performance
of a poem entitled “Our Faces” and
dedicated to López Rivera, written
while he was “incarcerated” in the
cell installation. The entire crowd
of over 100 people responded at
the end with a standing ovation.
Batey urbano, network
collaborate on “letters
from young activists”
book reading
NBHRN float at
29th Peoples parade
On Saturday, June 17, 2006 the
National Boricua Human Rights
Network participated in the 29th
On Friday June 2, 2006, the National
Boricua Human Rights Network cosponsored, with the Batey Urbano, a
reading from the new book Letters from
Young Activists, edited by Dan Berger,
Chesa Boudin, and Kenyon Farrow. The
Annual Puerto Rican People’s
Parade on Paseo Boricua. This
year’s theme was “From Memories
of Resistance to a Community of
Hope: ¡Aquí Luchamos Y Aquí Nos
Quedamos!” commemorating the
40th anniversary of the Division
Street riots during June 12, 13
and 14 of 1966.
write to the patriots
Carlos Alberto Torres, #88976-024
Born: September 19, 1952
FCI Oxford, PO Box 1000,
Oxford, WI 53952
Oscar López Rivera, #87651-024
Born: January 6, 1943
USP Terre Haute, PO Box 12015,
Terre Haute, IN 47801
NBHRN announces benefit raffle
for “Not Enough Space”
featuring 2 quilts by local artist Ken Ellis
(each valued at over $1300 by artist)
La Red on the internet:
www.boricuahumanrights.org
www.presospoliticospuertorriquenos.org
•”Do what you do, not what you say” by Jan Susler
• “Our Faces” by Matt Rodríguez
• Richard Williams Tribute book released by Interfaith Prisoner of Conscience Project (IPOC)
The NBHRN participated with a
float designed as a prison cell
to bring attention to the continued incarceration of Oscar López
Rivera and Carlos Alberto Torres.
This year marked the 25th anniversary of Oscar’s incarceration
and 26 years for Carlos Alberto.
The float was also decorated
with each prisoner’s artwork – art
work that is being featured in the
“Not Enough Space” traveling art
exhibit that is currently on its way
to being shown in Mexico.
For more information about the
campaign to free Oscar López
Rivera and Carlos Alberto Torres,
and the “Not Enough Space” art
exhibit, please visit us at:
www.boricuahumanrights.org.
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
Raffle to take place January 6, 2007 in Chicago (winner need not be present)
Tickets for each quilt sold separately, please specify.
Tickets: 1 for $10, 3 for $25
Proceeds to benefit “Not Enough Space” Traveling Art Exhibition
Commemorating 25 years of political imprisonment of Carlos Alberto Torres and
Oscar López Rivera. To buy tickets, email [email protected] or in Chicago, stop by the
Puerto Rican Cultural Center, 2739-41 W. Division or Café Batey Urbano, 2620 W. Division
book contains writings from youth
activists across the world who are
actively involved in a variety of causes,
from youth queer movements to international health care projects; organized
in the format of letters, these writings
are reflections on such issues as to how
they became involved in political and
grassroots causes. Many also address
previous and future generations of
activists. The reading at the Batey was
part of a nationwide book tour; at each
city, local activists who contributed to
the book participated in the reading. At
the Batey event, Dan Berger, and local
authors that contributed to the collection, read passages from the book.
For more information:
lettersfromyoungactivists.org.
7
July/August Update: CO-OP Humboldt Park
Community of Wellness
Contact: Miguel Morales • CO-OP Humboldt Park • 773.278.6737 • 2703 W. Division Street
Grand Opening of the
Homegrown Farmer’s Market
Paseo Boricua - the Place for Affordable
and Fresh Produce
Miguel A. Morales
On Saturday, July 8, the Homegrown Farmer’s Market, sponsored by
the Puerto Rican Cultural Center (PRCC) and Growing Power, held
its grand opening on Paseo Boricua. Last year, the Puerto Rican Cultural Center facilitated the market space called “El Conuco” (2626
West Division Street) in order to increase access
to fresh produce for the residents of Humboldt
Park. This year, through CO-OP Humboldt Park,
the PRCC is directly managing the Farmer’s Market, which will be open from 12pm - 3pm every
Saturday until November 11.
Humboldt Park to advocate for the consumption of fresh produce,
which contains nutrients and fiber necessary for health and fighting
disease and is a cornerstone in the campaign to address obesity in
Humboldt Park. Rates of obesity in the area are alarming: according to the Sinai Urban Health Institute study in
2004, over 60% of children in both Humboldt Park
and West Town were either overweight or obese.
Obesity in the area among Puerto Ricans, Mexicans and African Americans is 32%, 35% and 39%,
respectively.
Nearly 100 people visited the Homegrown Farmer’s Market, held in conjunction with the Puerto
Rican Artisan’s Fair taking place across the street
at La Casita de Don Pedro (2625 W Division Street) where bomba y
plena music made its way across the street through a live performance by Nuestro Tambó. Participants not only enjoyed the music,
but also purchased fresh produce, bought flowers and jam, and had
their bikes repaired.
As studies have shown, communities of color tend
to have less access to large chain grocery stores
that sell produce than their white counterparts.
So in efforts to excersie self-sufficiency in the community, CO-OP
Humboldt Park is working to increase community garden participation and plans to build a green house with Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos
Puerto Rican High School in order to grow produce year round.
The Homegrown Farmer’s Market is part of a larger effort by CO-OP
It is integral that longtime Humboldt Park residents become the
actors in the their own health and community well-being.
¡Muévete!
FARM – CITY
MARKET BASKET PROGRAM
on Paseo Boricua
In collaboration with Growing Power Rainbow Farmers Cooperative, CO-OP Humboldt Park will
launch a program that allows residents to buy an affordable assortment of fruits and
vegetables on a weekly basis throughout the fall, winter and spring seasons. We know how
important fresh produce is to our health and fighting disease, so we urge residents to subscribe
to this service. You can choose one of the following baskets. Link Card is accepted!
CO-OP Humboldt Park Aerobics
¡Muévete! is now doing
aerobics every Monday,
Wednesday and Friday,
6:30pm – 7:30pm at the
Humboldt Park Field House
(1440 N Sacramento).
Choose The Program That Works For You!
8
Melons
Apples
Mustard Greens
Basil
Onions
Beets
Okra
Broccoli
Peaches
Cabbage
Peas
Carrots
Collard Greens Peppers
Spinach
Cucumbers
Eggplants Sweet Corn
Tomatoes
Grapes
Lettuce Turnip Greens
• Junior/Senior Market Basket (Singles)
For $8 a week, we offer a basket of fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables that is
half the size of the Farm-City Market Basket and is senior-friendly..
• Sustainable Box (Organic)
For $26 a week, enjoy a combination of certified organic, sustainable and
eco-friendly produce grown by members of our farmer’s co-op. Take care of
the earth and experience a culinary feast each week.
• Chicken Dinner (Organic)
For $16 add an Amish pasture raised organic chicken to your order! Just
$30 for a market basket with Chicken or $41 for a sustainable box with
chicken. Contact Miguel Angel Morales or Jovannie Vargas at (773) 278-6737 for more information.
Additional PRODUCEMOBILE
PROGRAMS:
• McCormick Tribune YMCA parking lot
(1834 N Lawndale Ave)
Every first Tuesday of the month; next Producemobile: Tuesday, August 1, 9AM
Call 773 235-2525 for more information.
• Humboldt Park Boat House (sponsored by San
Lucas Church)
Vida/SIDA
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
• Farm-City Market Basket
For $15 a week, we guarantee your home access to safe, healthy produce. Our
basket contains a variety of fruits and vegetables to feed a family of 2-4 for a whole
week.
For more information,
call Leony at (773) 278-6737.
Every third Monday of the month;
next Producemobile: Monday, August 21, 10AM
Call Rosa at 773 227-5747 for more information.
The Puerto Rican Cultural Center and Growing
Power is proud to announce:
Homegrown FARMER’S MARKET
at El Conuco – 2626 W. Division Street
You can
receive
FREE PRODUCE
through the PRODUCEMOBILE
August 7, 2006 • Humboldt Park Boat House • 10am
July 8, 2006 through November 11, 2006
Saturdays 12pm - 3:00pm
One person per
household can
pick up food!
• Fresh vegetables and flowers grown locally
without chemicals, jewelry and crafts, soaps
and herbs.
• Meet your neighbors
• Share recipes and learn about healthy eating
Homegrown Farmer’s Market
needs participants!
We are looking for volunteers, growers and vendors to
participate in the HomeGrown Farmers Market 2006:
• Volunteers would help set up and break down
the tents, tables and chairs of the Market;
• Growers would grow produce, spices or flowers
in their own backyards or in available space at
one of Humboldt Park’s public gardens and
sell at the Market;
• Vendors would sell non-produce items such as
handicraft, honey, jam, jewelry, etc.
Please call CO-OP Humboldt Park at
773 278-6737 for more information.
For more information:
please contact Miguel Morales,
773/278-6737
This program is provided to you by:
CO-OP Humboldt Park, Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Space provided to this program
by the Chicago Park District
(Humboldt Park)
La Estancia... continued from front page
Remarkably, a number of young
people from the community
also stood in line for people
who were not able to make the
line due to illness, work or lack
of childcare.Throughout the
night, these residents and their
families connected with each
other, shared food and talked
until the sun came up. What
began with a line of about
twenty people grew to the
following morning to nearly
400, proving that there is a
need for affordable rentals in
Humboldt Park.
West Town
Community Law Office
Proudly serving
Chicago’s Puerto
Rican and
Latin American
Community!
Linda Padilla,
Paralegal
Melinda Power,
2502 West Division
Street
Chicago, IL 60622
773/278.6706
773/278.0635 fax
the architect, the developer or
the construction worker.”
The need for housing continues
to plague Humboldt Park
but it will take more than a
bulldozer to demolish the
resilience that this community
has exemplified. In Humboldt
Park and Chicago’s Puerto
Rican community, there is a
fierce dedication to ensure
that they will not be gentrified,
assimilated or forgotten.
Pregnant and Parenting Teens
Return to School!
The Lolita Lebrón Family Learning Center is for you
Reyna Torres
Being a young mother is a life
changing experience. It may
be so overwhelming in fact
that it may become difficult to
continue high school without
a support system. Are you or
someone you know looking
to return to school to provide
better opportunities for
you and your child? If so,
then Lolita Lebrón Family
Learning Center (FLC) is for you! It is not too late! Located at 2636 W. Division in
the heart of Chicago’s Puerto Rican community, the FLC offers young mothers the
opportunity to acquire a high school diploma in an atmosphere that is sensitive to the
family and focuses on the special needs of the Latina.
On June 20, 2006 the Family Learning Center had the opportunity to help make
high school graduation a reality for seven young women. They were an example to all
young mothers that want to return to school and continue their education. It can be
done! For over ten years, the Family Learning Center has provided the opportunity
for numerous young teen parents to attain their high school diploma. As a site of Dr.
Pedro Albizu Campos Puerto Rican High School, the FLC offers a full high school
curriculum, along with parenting classes, and focuses on empowering parents to invest
time with their children throughout the day. An onsite child center facility is also
available for mothers who do not have access to childcare.
If you have been thinking about returning to school do not delay! On Friday, August
4 and Friday, August 11 at 1:00pm testing will take place for interested candidates.
Drop by the FLC at 2636 W. Division and take the first step to the beginning of your
future. Now is your chance! For more information call 773.342.0809.
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
Attorney
Judy Diaz, who stood in line
for eldery women, had this
to say about her experience:
“Standing in line was a
humbling experience, it was
the actualization of community
building at its max, I am just
glad to be a part of this historic
achievement. That
corner
[Division and California] has
transformed into a turning
point in this community. We
are as much a part of the
transformative process of
making La Estancia a reality as
9
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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.BATEYLINK.ORG OR CALL 1-888-749-6772
National Puerto Rican Coalition’s
2006 Annual Policy conference
August 30 – September 3, 2006 • The Hilton Chicago Hotel
Wednesday, August 30, 2006 • 6pm – 9pm
Welcoming Reception
Fireworks at Chicago Navy Pier
Join the NPRC in Chicago’s Navy Pier as we commence our 2006 National
Policy Conference with an opening reception, gathering elected officials,
community leaders and members of government to highlight NPRC’s
2006 conference events.
Thursday, August 31, 2006 • 6:30pm – 9:30pm
Reception and Movie Screening
“Yo Soy Boricua, Pa’ Que Tu Lo Sepas”
A documentary by Rosie Perez
Special Showing at the Humboldt Park
Credit: Scott Pasfield
In her directorial debut, Rosie Perez (Do the
Right Thing, White Men Can’t Jump) celebrates
Puerto Rican pride. Alternately shocking and
humorous, this documentary, which is narrated
by Jimmy Smits (The West Wing, NYPD Blue),
puts the themes of family, language, and
racism into a historical perspective.
The film uncovers the complex and controversial history between Puerto
Rico and the United States: Forced sterilizations and birth control testing
in Puerto Rico; the imprisonment and torture of freedom fighter Pedro
Albizu Campos; Pedro Pietri, the pre-eminent voice for Nuyoricans; The
Young Lords, a group of activists agitating for Puerto Rican rights in
New York City; and the protests against U.S. bombing of Vieques. Few
Americans know about these subjects, which are not to be found in
American history books.
Academy Award-nominated producer Liz Garbus (Girlhood, The Farm:
Angola, USA, The Execution of Wanda Jean) and Emmy-nominated
producer Rory Kennedy (A Boy’s Life, Pandemic, American Hollow)
produced this film.
Friday, September 1, 2006 • 11:00am – 12:30pm
Nuestra Cultura
Chicago Hilton Hotel
This workshop will feature a musical performance and presentations
on Puerto Rican culture. Presentations will be made by internationally
respected musician, composer, and Salsa legend Willie Colón. The
Nuestra Cultura workshop will also include a discussion on unique
Puerto Rican cultural activities like Puerto Rican Parades and Festivals
that feature vibrant music, art, and dance, such as Chicago’s Fiesta
Boricua.
Friday, September 1, 2006 • 3pm – 5:30pm
Cultivating the Next Generation of Leaders
Café Teatro, Batey Urbano
2620 W. Division (Paseo Boricua)
Recognizing the importance of youth leadership, NPRC has scheduled
an interactive workshop at one the most active youth leadership
development community centers in the Midwest. We urge all young
people attending the conference to join us during this forum where we
will explore the leadership programs and discuss how our young leaders
can further develop and contribute to our communities.
Hispanic subgroups. Three health panels will review state
health initiatives, federal health disparities legislation,
and new programs providing access to medicines.
NPRC’s annual policy conference is the only national
conference that comprehensively addresses national
policy issues of pivotal importance to the Puerto Rican
community. The conference agenda includes two multipart comprehensive seminars focusing on education and
health.
Charter Schools
This 3-part training seminar provides practical training
on planning and implementing a charter school program,
and will highlight successful charter schools and
curriculums that prepare students for academic success.
We are proud of our record as the most visible and
effective voice in Washington, DC on issues affecting
the Puerto Rican community, and of the leadership we
are providing on issues affecting the entire Hispanic
community.
Health
Puerto Ricans living in the U.S. are disproportionately
burdened by higher rates of health issues than other
Manuel Mirabal
President & CEO
Friday, September 1, 2006 • 6:30pm – 12am
(a stretch along Division Street
that represents a microcosm
of the Puerto Rican historical
and cultural experience) for all
to admire for years to come.
Past recipients of this award
include such renowned figures
as Ismael Miranda, Andres
Jimenez, Andy Montañez, El
Gran Combo, and Lucecita Benitez, and Eddie Palmieri. The 2006
Paseo Boricua Walk of Fame honorees will be legendary Salsa
musician, Willie Colon and actress/director Rosie Perez.
NPRC Reception, Dinner and Dance
“Un Encuentro Entre Familia”
Chicago Hilton Hotel (Main Ballroom)
NPRC’s annual awards dinner will feature recognitions to Paseo
Boricua’s Walk of Fame 2006 honorees; Willie Colon and Rosie Perez,
and a special presentation to Puerto Rico’s most decorated veteran,
Jorge Otero Barreto. The dinner keynote address will be provided by
the Honorable Luis Gutiérrez, Member of Congress, representing
Chicago, Illinois.
During the conference we will also discuss other
important issues including Child Poverty, Affordable
Housing, and Leadership Development and host various
events recognizing the contributions of Puerto Rican
labor leaders, women, and distinguished individuals.
Included is a listing of our conference event highlights.
For a complete listing of our conference agenda, please
visit www.bateylink.org.
We hope you will be able to join us as we celebrate
our puertorriqueñidad and advance a national agenda
to address issues that are crucial to the prosperity and
quality of life of our community.
Siempre Boricua,
Saturday, September 2, 2006 • 9am – 12pm
NPRC’s All-Star Dominoes Tournament
Teresa Roldan Apartments
2501-11 W. Division (Paseo Boricua)
Join NPRC and the National Puerto Rican Parade as we gather at
the Teresa Roldan Apartments for our first Dominoes tournament
ever! The growing popular game dated back as early as 1120 AD,
represents a part of the cultural heritage for many Puerto Ricans
in the island and the United States. Come and enjoy a morning in
Paseo Boricua as we battle out the game some call, “Puerto Rico’s
National Pastime.” Open Registration: On-site Admission: FREE
Saturday, September 2, 2006 • 12pm – 1:30pm
Paseo Boricua Walk of Fame Induction
Teresa Roldan Apartments
2501-11 W. Division (Paseo Boricua)
A tradition that began in 2002, the “ Paseo Boricua Walk of
Fame” sidewalk medallion is Chicago’s Puerto Rican equivalent to
the famous “Walk of Fame” of downtown Hollywood. Presented to
prominent Puerto Rican men and women who throughout their careers
have elevated Puerto Rico’s name and image across the globe, this
5 foot bronze circular medallion with the image of Paseo Boricua’s
famous steel flags are embedded in the walkway of Paseo Boricua
Sunday, September 3, 2006 • 12pm – 7pm
Fiesta Boricua
Paseo Boricua (from Bandera to Bandera)
NPRC will be joining Alderman Billy Ocasio and the Puerto Rican
Cultural Center for Fiesta Boricua, the biggest ethnic festival in
the Midwest. Gathering more than 120,000 people, Fiesta Boricua
celebrates the Puerto Rican heritage in the ethnic corridor of
Paseo Boricua with hundreds of vendors, cultural activities and
entertainment for the whole family.
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
Batey Urbano is a Puerto Rican/Latino youth space which endeavors to
showcase the talents of Humbolt Park area youth (hip hop, poetry with
a purpose, music) and engage them in a continuous dialogue about
youth, art, culture and the community.
T
he National Puerto Rican
Coalition would like you to
join us in Chicago for our
2006 national policy conference,
“Siempre Boricua” where we will
discuss social, economic, and
political issues affecting the Puerto
Rican community. NPRC is proud to
hold its first conference in Chicago,
Illinois, where there is a uniquely vibrant Puerto Rican
community that has asserted its presence for more than
four decades.
11
40th Anniversary Commemoration... continued from page 2
treated to two documentaries made by
young Chicago Puerto Ricans. The first
documentary produced by Mildred
Amador, titled “Flags of Steel,” focused
on the process that created the two
massive Puerto Rican flags that visibly
define the Puerto Rican community of
Chicago and its home, Paseo Boricua.
The second documentary was a preview
of “Cause and Effect” a new documentary
by Antonio and Gloricelly Franceschi
of New Film Productions. The short
preview was immensely powerful due to
its ability to capture the feeling and spirit
of the Division Street Riots through never
before seen video footage and pictures, as
well as first-hand accounts of those who
lived through the historic moment.
The following morning, energized by
a night of reflection and communitybuilding, the “Community as Intellectual
Space”Symposium hosted its first of three
panel sessions. Presentations by a number
of scholars who have done research on
the Puerto Rican Cultural Center helped
to create an academic understanding of
the often times overlooked sophistication
of the community building work of this
grassroots institution. Well-received
presentations on the Dr. Pedro Albizu
Campos Puerto Rican High School, the
Lolita Lebrón Family Learning Center
and Café Teatro Batey Urbano were given
by doctoral student Rachel Rinaldo, Dr.
Laura Johnson, and Dr. Rene AntropGonzalez, and graduate student Michael
Rodríguez Muñiz.
La Voz del Paseo Boricua
The panel discussion was followed by the
festive 29th Annual Puerto Rican Peoples’
Parade, which turned out to be the largest
ever. Thousands upon thousands of Puerto
Ricans came to Paseo Boricua, waving
their flags in pride as the floats, giant
vejigantes, and marchers made their way
through Division Street. Accompanied by
the masses of people were dignitaries and
guests of honor for the People’s Parade,
which included Assemblyman of New
York, José Rivera and wife, Cook County
Commissioner Roberto Maldonado, 26th
Ward Alderman Billy Ocasio, Midwest
Regional Director of the Puerto Rican
Federal Affairs Administration (PRFAA)
Maddi Elga Amill, and leader of the
Mexican community, Emma Lozano.
The chants of “Boricua Si, Yuppie No,”
12 “Boricua soy para que tú lo sepas” and
“Aquí luchamos y aquí nos quedamos”
coming from the Café Teatro Batey
Urbano float were quickly picked up by
the crowds showing their desire to keep a
Puerto Rican Humboldt Park. La Familia
Latina Unida, with their banner reading,
“Yesterday we marched, today we vote,
tomorrow we succeed” marched with the
flags representing the nations of Latin
America.
Picking up from the morning session,
the Symposium continued after the
parade with a panel on Puerto Ricans
in Chicago. The second session, which
included presentations from scholars Dr.
Irma Olmedo, Dr. Maura Toro-Morn, Dr.
Gina Perez, discussed the development
of Chicago’s Puerto Rican community,
particularly as lived and experienced by
Puerto Rican women.
Sunday, June 18, the last day of the
weeklong commemoration, began with
the closing session of the symposium.
The exploration of such concepts such
as participatory democracy, participatory
economics,
participatory
action
research, and a community of wellness,
brought together community activists
and academics in dialogue about the
innovative work taking place on Paseo
Boricua and spearheaded by the Puerto
Rican Cultural Center.
Shortly after the last session panel, close to
200 people were treated to the premiere
of “Spark,” written and directed by
literary icon Tato Laviera. Funded in part
by the Building Community through the
Arts and the New Communities Program,
Laviera and Café Teatro Batey Urbano
presented a wonderfully provocative play
on the 1966 Division Street Riots. After
a standing ovation, an intergenerational
exchange took place, thereby ensuring
that the great significance of the 1966
Division Street Riots will never be
forgotten. In the crowd were several
participants in the actual Riots.
During an intense week of celebration
and reflection, Puerto Ricans in Chicago
were able to remember a history some
wished would be forgotten. By delving
deep into the collective memory of this
defiant community, the young Puerto
Ricans were connected to the experiences
and struggles of previous generations.
Furthermore, Puerto Ricans, today
being again faced with displacement,
rooted themselves on the very street
where their political consciousness was
awakened. Forty years after the flames
were extinguished, spaces of resistance
continue to bear fruit as we build a
community of hope and possibilities.
La Voz del Paseo Boricua