Cinco de Mayo is celebrated across the country with parades, music, and cultural events. Yet, in rural communities such as Shafter, Cinco de Mayo means recognizing, honoring, and celebrating this holiday that is rooted in tradition, family, and Mexican pride.
Cinco de Mayo, a holiday that commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French Forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, many communities celebrate this celebration boldly.
In Shafter, that tradition began more than 35 years ago, when Brani Root’s family started a local celebration held each year on the Saturday before Cinco de Mayo. Founded by her late father, Albert Roy Root, the event has grown to include a parade and park festivities and is organized by a small but dedicated committee of seven volunteers. A portion of the proceeds that are raised at this event is given to Shafter High students as scholarships.
“We wanted to bring art and culture into the community as well as education and different cultures,” said Brani Root. “Because we have a very large Hispanic community, we thought it would be good to bring this event to our hometown.”
This year, the celebration brought together residents from Shafter and neighboring towns to reflect on the meaning behind the day, and Kern Sol News was able to ask them what Cinco de Mayo means to them.
“This celebration itself means to me it’s a part of who I am because of my family. It was so important to my family,” said Brani Root.
“Cinco de Mayo is a big celebration and tradition for the city,” said Amalia (on the right). “Everybody is enjoying lots of music, dances, and food, and it’s a special day for Shafter and the whole Mexican community. Viva Mexico.
“To get together with the community of Shafter, the community of Wasco, and the community of Bakersfield all together in one place,” said Miguel (second from the left). “And for all of us to have fun and learn more about culture and what Cinco de Mayo means.”
“Cinco de Mayo means to me like representing Mexico and my culture,” said Danna Fierro. “I love it so much.”
“Growing up as a kid celebrating our culture and all that… it kind of means like a way of expressing my culture and my identity,” said Alan Cazares.
