On Saturday, February 15, around 50 participants joined ArteLatAm for a vibrant day of art and culture, organized by the Consulate of Ecuador in Queens, the Ecuadorian Civic Committee in New York, and the LULAC Council for Education. This event, titled “Conectando Culturas y Sanando Emociones”, celebrated the rich culture of the Ecuadorian community in New York, offering a unique experience for the whole family. It was led by ArteLatAm, a certified vendor for the Department of Education in New York.
The Colors of Carnival” launched the program as the first workshop in an annual program focused on cultural identity and emotional well-being. Attendees witnessed how Ecuadorian traditions came to life through the Art. The initiative, supported by key institutions and sponsored by private companies, provided a space for participants to reconnect with their roots and heal through art.
The Consul of Ecuador in Queens, Kar Atamaint, highlighted the significance of this initiative, saying: “We’re honored to facilitate this interactive art program, promoting cultural exchange and reaffirming our commitment to diversity, integration, leaving a legacy for our youth Ecuadorians. This program fosters mutual respect and strengthens our community bonds, essential for a more inclusive and compassionate society
Samanta León, from the Ecuadorian Civic Committee in New York, Executive Director of the Program, also expressed her enthusiasm, mentioning that this annual program, with five artistic workshops, is designed to strengthen cultural identity and provide emotional tools to migrant families. “Art is a bridge between our history and our future,” León shared as she kicked off the workshop.
The event was supported by various organizations that helped make it possible. These include the Consular Agency of Ecuador in Queens, which plays a vital role as a link between the Ecuadorian community and its home country by providing a wide range of consular services. Also present was the Ecuadorian Civic Committee, a nonprofit organization that promotes integration and interculturality, and LULAC Council 23055, branch of the largest and oldest Latino nonprofit organization in the U.S., which promotes the development of the Hispanic-American community.
The affair was supported by the private sponsorship of Altamirano Financial Services, a dedicated partner providing financial and business services to the Latino community. Thanks to all participating organizations for their collaborative efforts for the event’s outstanding success.
ArteLatAm recognizes the importance of preserving and promoting Ecuadorian cultural identity in the Hispanic community living in New York, as well as fostering the emotional well-being of migrant families. This Art and Culture Program for the Ecuadorian Community offers many benefits, including enhanced motivation and connection with nature, development of sensory awareness, and refined fine motor skills, and, what is more important, it aims to connect families with their cultural roots through art, strengthening their rich, ancestral cultural identity-stated Sylvia Mata
During the experience, artists Darwin Erazo and Pedro Felipe led the workshop “The Colors of Carnival”, a vibrant celebration of Ecuadorian traditions.
The impact of this event was significant, as it not only helped strengthen the cultural identity of the participants but also contributed to fostering understanding and respect between cultures. Through these types of initiatives, the goal is to create a global network of cultural exchange, preserve cultural identity for future generations, and build a more united, resilient community free from barriers and stereotypes.
We invite the community to continue participating in future activities and events, strengthening the bonds of friendship and intercultural cooperation.
