The Salvation Army Philadelphia Kroc Center celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with a night of culture, music, and acknowledgement of the accomplishments of Latinos in the community.

“This evening, we gather to honor and celebrate the diversity, traditions, and incredible contributions of Philadelphia’s Latinos. We recognize those who have paved the way, while inspiring future generations of leaders,” said Major Jason Knaggs, administrator at the Philadelphia Kroc. “Our own mission at The Salvation Army is to meet human needs without discrimination while creating a place where all people can belong. Tonight’s program reflects that mission.”

Guests at “Unidos en Nuestra Celebracion” (United in Our Celebration) were treated to dance performances from the Philadelphia Tabernacle Corps Dance Team and Move On Arts Studio, and a performance of the national anthem by Venezuelan recording artist Alex Moreno. Philadelphia salsa group “Raices Boricuas ” and Major Israel Acosta also performed.

Tiffany Tavarez, vice president of community impact and strategic partnership for Jefferson Health Plans, was the mistress of ceremonies. Tavarez said the evening’s honorees share the spirit of leadership, culture, and legacy that we celebrate during Hispanic Heritage Month. The honorees were Salvation Army corps officers Majors Miguel and Francisca Robinson, Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Commissioner Maria Quinones Sanchez, senior strategic advisor for Independence Blue Cross Juan Lopez, Philadelphia City Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, and interdisciplinary artist and educator LEMUS.

“Their service, vision, and commitment strengthen our communities and enrich the lives of countless individuals,” said Tavarez.

Mural unveiled

Honoree LEMUS (José Lemus) played another important role during the celebration. The Mexican artist debuted his new mural in the Philadelphia Kroc Center’s bright, soaring lobby.

LEMUS drew inspiration from the stained glass that adorns the Kroc Center and said he wanted the mural to feel like an accompanying piece. The display, brought over from the now-closed Salvation Army Germantown Corps, honors its memory and members, many of whom now call the Kroc Center their church.

The theme of an intergenerational community and honoring those who came before us was vital to LEMUS, in both the mural’s subject matter and its creation.

“My favorite parts of doing this mural were the community painting days,” said LEMUS. “That was when the Kroc Center community, the children, and the seniors from the Golden Gems program all came together to turn an idea into a physical format.”

The mural reflects that bond and the interaction between generations with an aged, veined hand lowering gems and seeds down to an awaiting pair of younger hands.

“The gems and seeds are the wisdom and gifts that come from our elders,” said LEMUS. “They have the knowledge and life experiences to share with us and help us grow.”