Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration Moves Ahead

Cathedral City Forges Forward with Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

CATHEDRAL CITY — This community “will absolutely” move forward with its Hispanic Heritage Month celebration this Saturday, Sept. 20, Ryan Hunt, communications and Events coordinator, told Uken Report.

“As a majority Latino community, it’s important that we continue to celebrate who we are and honor the rich cultural heritage that defines Cathedral City,” Hunt said. “We believe now more than ever it’s crucial to come together as a community and demonstrate that our diversity is our strength.

“This celebration represents an opportunity for our community to reflect on the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans while reinforcing that every person and every family belong here,” Hunt added.

Confirmation of the event follows news that some Latino community events in the Inland Empire are being canceled because of fears about immigration enforcement.

The Perris-based TODEC Legal Center, which provides immigration and labor services to migrant farmworkers across the Inland region and Coachella Valley, canceled its Festival Monarca amid continuing Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations.

The Coachella Valley’s annual pilgrimage to honor the Virgin of Guadalupe has been canceled amid fears about heightened immigration enforcement.

The city of Coachella canceled its traditional Fiestas Patrias event celebrating Mexican pride and independence due to the community’s fears surrounding ICE activity in the area.

The Cathedral City event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 68700 Ave Lalo Guerrero, followed by a documentary screening at the Cathedral City Senior Center at 1:30 PM.

The City of Cathedral City and the Cathedral City Senior Center invite the community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a vibrant block party and special documentary screening honoring one of the city’s most beloved cultural icons. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, residents can enjoy a day filled with music, culture, and community connection celebrating the rich Hispanic and Latino heritage that defines our community.

Block Party & Resource Fair

• When: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 p.m.
• Where: 68700 Ave Lalo Guerrero, Cathedral City

The festivities begin at 11:00 AM with welcome remarks from Mayor Nancy Ross and City Council members, followed by a captivating performance by Folklorico dancers showcasing traditional Mexican dance. From 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, attendees will be treated to live music by Mark Guerrero and his five-piece band, continuing the musical legacy that runs deep in Cathedral City’s cultural fabric.

Throughout the event, community organizations will host informational booths, creating opportunities for residents to connect with local resources and services. The block party promises to be a family-friendly celebration that brings neighbors together while honoring the rich Hispanic and Latino heritage that shapes Cathedral City’s identity.

Documentary Screening: “Lalo Guerrero: The Original Chicano”

• When: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 1:30 p.m.
• Where: Cathedral City Senior Center, 37171 W. Buddy Rogers Ave.

Following the block party, the celebration continues with a special screening of the documentary “Lalo Guerrero: The Original Chicano” at the Cathedral City Senior Center. This film pays tribute to Eduardo “Lalo” Guerrero, known as the “Father of Chicano Music,” whose musical legacy profoundly influenced American culture.

Lalo Guerrero was a composer, musician, and singer who received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious National Medal of the Arts. His nearly 30-year residency in Cathedral City left an indelible mark on the community, and his contributions to music and culture are permanently commemorated with a bronze sculpture located in front of Cathedral City Hall.

The documentary offers viewers an intimate look at Guerrero’s life, his groundbreaking musical contributions, and his role in shaping Chicano identity through art. From his early compositions to his influence on generations of musicians, the film captures the essence of a man whose work transcended entertainment to become a voice for his community.