Las Kamaladas Unites at Woodlawn Park, Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Sheriff Javier Salazar Attend
This past weekend, Las Kamaladas hosted a vibrant rally at Woodlawn Park, where community members came together to celebrate their culture while mobilizing voters to head to the polls. Las Kamaladas, a San Antonio-based grassroots group comprised of leaders, educators, culture bearers, and business owners, is dedicated to supporting women in leadership roles. Elected officials, including Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Sheriff Javier Salazar, made special appearances to join in the fun of tamale-making with Dr. Ellen Riojas Clark, transforming the event into both a culinary celebration and a rallying point for activism in support of Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 election.
A Cultural Celebration
The Kamalada, inspired by traditional tamaladas commonly held within Latino communities, was a collaborative gathering filled with laughter, storytelling, and shared culinary heritage. Participants came together not only to make tamales but also to activate their voices and engage in grassroots efforts to mobilize voters during elections.
A variety of tamales were made showing the rich culinary traditions of the San Antonio community. Tamales, made with corn masa and diverse fillings, have been a staple in Hispanic culture for thousands of years. This event was more than just about food; it highlighted how these cherished dishes nourish both the body and the soul. It served as a powerful reminder of cultural identity and resilience, showing how food can bring people together and inspire meaningful action.
The Importance of the Latino Vote in the 2024 Presidential Election
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the Latino vote is expected to play a pivotal role in determining the next president of the United States. Both Democratic and Republican parties are actively working to secure support from the Latino community, now being the largest ethnic minority in the nation.
For Vice President Harris, the stakes are particularly high; she represents a figure aligned with many in the Latino community, being of mixed race and the daughter of immigrants. This contrasts with Trump’s approach, which has included spreading disinformation, such as the recent claim that Haitian immigrants are eating pets in Springfield, Ohio. With over 36 million Latinos eligible to vote—about 15% of the electorate—this diverse, historically Democrat voting, and fast-growing demographic is set to be influential in key states like California, Florida, Arizona, Nevada, and Texas.
The Intersection of Food, Culture, and Politics
Las Kamalada highlighted the deep connections between food, culture, and politics, emphasizing the vital role of cultural identity in shaping the political landscape. With early voting having started last week, the event served as a powerful reminder that every voice matters in driving change. This gathering not only celebrated the rich traditions of the community but also underscored the importance of mobilizing voters for the ongoing election. As ballots are cast, efforts to encourage voter participation continue at all levels, from local initiatives to national campaigns, ensuring that every voice contributes to the democratic process.
Make sure to vote as everyone’s voice and vote counts.
