The second annual SEIU 1021 Latino Heritage Celebration last Friday, October 18, was a huge success. Hundreds of SEIU 1021 members and their guests from across Northern California, including as far away as San Joaquin County gathered at the Just Dance Ballroom in Oakland for a festive night of food and entertainment representing numerous Latin American countries and cultures.

“Thanks to all who attended the second annual SEIU 1021 Latino Heritage Celebration,” said SEIU 1021 Latino Caucus Co-Chair and Alameda County Chapter President Judy Martinez. “It was a nice event to come together and enjoy our union as one. Everyone enjoyed the delicious food, dancing to the DJ’s music, and just hanging out having a great time!”

The spectacular entertainment included the Mariachi Halcones band, Danza Azteca In Lak’Ech (an Aztec dance troupe), and Fogo Na Roupa (a Brazilian dance troupe). Their costumes, music, and moves dazzled the crowd.

“We’re proud to have had the SEIU International Latino Caucus Chair Jaime Contreras in attendance of our 2nd annual Latino Heritage Month event, which was a huge success once again!” said SEIU 1021 Counties Industry Chair and Latino Caucus Secretary Tina Tapia. 

In addition to SEIU 1021 President Theresa Rutherford and SEIU International Latino Caucus Chair Jaime Contreras, members and their guests heard from SEIU International Executive Vice President Joseph Bryant, who showed up to enjoy the festivities.

“Our second Latino Heritage celebration was a huge success,” said SEIU 1021 Latino Caucus Co-Chair Angel Valdez. ”It was well-attended, and our Local 1021 members enjoyed the great performances by the mariachi band and the Aztec and Brazilian dancers, in addition to the inspiring words by our guest speakers. The DJ played excellent music for everyone to dance to, and the food, as always, was yummy. We are looking forward to our third Latino Heritage celebration in 2025!”

View the photo album on Facebook here.

You can watch the performances and speakers on our Instagram here.