BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The kickoff event of Hispanic Heritage month took place this Wednesday in Southside Bethlehem.
The event was hosted by Northampton Community College, State Rep. Steve Samuelson, (D-Northampton) and the Hispanic Center of the Lehigh Valley in the parking lot of Touchstone Theatre.
Various organizations were present with tables representative of several Latin American countries.
Narcis Solis had a Mexican-themed booth, not only with brochures and other information but also “Day of the Dead” decor.
She represents CareerLink Lehigh Valley and said she was happy to be present.
“It is very important to let the community know that we have resources available to look for jobs, training, and other programs that may help even the Hispanic community,” she said.
During the event, the organizers presented “Unsung Hero Awards” including to Carmen Rivas, posthumously, for her service in her nursing home. Her son Sergio accepted the award on her behalf. She died in May.
“We were thrilled when we found out she was getting this award. I just think that she would have really liked to have been here, I’m sure,” he said.
About 100 people attended the festival; and, for the most part, all masked and socially distanced.
This marks what is just the beginning of days and days worth of Spanish music, food, and culture in the Lehigh Valley.