On
Friday, September 28, the Northwest
Portland Area Indian Health Board (NPAIHB)
and other local Indian organizations held their 7th Annual “American Indian Day
Celebration”. The event included Northwest Tribal leaders, Indian advocates,
drum groups, dancers, and arts and crafts vendors who shared their talents and
experiences with the Portland community. Tribal organizations set-up booths
displaying health, education, youth and other programs they provide on behalf
of Northwest Tribes and the Portland Indian community. For additional
information about NPAIHB, Click here.
Hundreds
of people showed up at Pioneer Courthouse Square on Saturday, September 15.
They were there to celebrate Central American and Mexican Independence at El
Grito! The celebration featured authentic Latino food, dance, and live Mariachi
and Ballet Folklorico. It ran from 11:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. This turned out
to be a super event. One of the speakers said the event was not only to
celebrate independence; it was also to celebrate the entire Latin Culture. In
my opinion, they did a great job accomplishing both goals. I hope this event is
back next year and for many more years to come. The crowd was reminded to update thier status on Facebook and Twitter, and I saw people whipping out their phones and taking care of business. Umbrella Man, who I know has never been to Latin America, was having a great time making new friends. He gave the event, "two big thumbs up!"
