Mayor Bob Filner led the rally cry of pride over Chicano Park on Friday, March 15, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mayor told members of the Barrio Logan community this honor is a long time coming and only confirms what San Diegans have always known.
“This is truly an historic park, a place where people have come together, a place where people have taken a stand to do the right thing and a place where art has blossomed and is now recognized nationally. It is places like these, that we should be promoting as part of tourist attractions to bring people to visit San Diego. I am proud of this park!” said Mayor Filner.
The Mayor also thanked everyone one involved in preserving the park, including Josie Talamantez, for her efforts in maneuvering through the rigorous process of getting the park on the National Register, Tommie Camarillo, Chairperson of the Chicano Park Steering Committee and countless volunteers who helped ensure the park remains a valuable resource and treasured gathering place for the community.
Mayor Filner also thanked the many artists who contributed to the beauty of the park through their paintings, including Salvador Torres, Victor Ochoa and Mario “Torero” Acevedo, and members of the “Royal Chicano Air Force. The Mayor was also presented with a special work of art by Mario Torero at the event, titled “Laura” based on the image of Laura Rodriguez, who is considered the Mother of Chicano Park.
“The artwork in this park is testament to the struggle, the survival and perseverance of a community San Diego is proud of. The mantra “Si Se Puede” is truly manifested here today,” said Mayor Filner.
Also in attendance at today’s press conference was San Diego City Councilmember David Alvarez, state Senator-elect Ben Hueso, Tommie Camarillo, Chairperson of the Chicano Park Steering Committee and Josie Talamantez, Independent Consultant on Art, Culture and History.