A Look Back at Barrio Fiesta 2017
Barrio Fiesta 2017 was filled with laughter and fun activities for all ages to enjoy. This event recreated the feeling of being back home in the Philippines and brought everyone together to celebrate unity and community. This fun-filled annual event celebrates the strong Filipino community in the South of Market and allowed everyone to relax and have a good time. From the delicious traditional food to the inspiring performances of poetry and song, everyone had something to look forward to.
During the fiesta, there were different activities such as a rock climbing, face painting and traditional games such as langit at lupa and patintero, led by Galing Bata and YOHANA. Multiple organizations and programs tabled, showcasing their work and providing assistance to families and individuals who came to the event. There was a main stage where the elderly folks were able to see a cooking demonstration of a healthy take on Filipino food. Students from Galing Bata showcased dances and songs, and performed “The SoMa, Bow”. YOHANA sang three songs as well. Native San Franciscan poet Tony Robles performed a spoken word piece in tribute to his late uncle, Russell Robles.
This year's Barrio's Fiesta was dedicated to the memory of Russell Robles who passed away in March of this year. Russell was one of the co-founders of Barrio Fiesta, an annual tradition revived by community leaders three years ago. Because of the work Russell has done for the SoMa Filipino community, Supervisor Jane Kim commended him at the event in the presence of his family and friends.
As the program continued, two more awards were presented: the Community Warrior Award and the Rising Warrior Award, which was a new category to recognize emerging leaders. These awards were given, respectively, to Bernadette Borja-Sy and I. I felt honored to be chosen for the first-ever Rising Warrior award. I did not think I would receive an award for something that I am so passionate about, which is community service. I am doing what I can do to help my people, and hoping to lead by example so that others will be inspired to do the same. The SoMa is a huge chunk of who I am. No matter where I go, I know I am representing the neighborhood.
Throughout the event, our lovely hosts reminded us constantly of the main theme of this year’s Barrio Fiesta; “Ang Tao, Ang Bayan, Ngayon ay Lumalaban" literally translates to "The People, the Community, Are Here Fighting". We wanted to show that, despite the climate of fear and uncertainty in our country, we can overcome the challenges we face as immigrants and people of color. Because of the diverse group that we are, we also wanted to show that in standing strong together– side-by-side and hand-in-hand– there is nothing to be afraid of.
Barrio Fiesta demonstrates the great love people have for the SoMa, whether they be natives and residents of the baranggay or just work or hang out here.
