POTTSTOWN >> A mural promoting the vitality of Hispanic and Native American heritage was dedicated amid snow flurries on Saturday.
The project was created by Carrie Kingsbury of Promiseland Murals for Centro Cultural Latinos Unidos, or CCLU.
Borough Councilwoman Rita Paez, who is also the president of CCLU, served as the master of ceremonies for the unveiling.
Although it has been up for some time, the mural was covered with a tarp and unveiled in dramatic fashion for the ceremony to the “oohs” and “ahhs” of the crowd.
Hot coffee and hot chocolate were served, and welcomed by those who were gathered and obviously chilly .
A dedication was offered by the Rev. William Rex, interim rector at Christ Episcopal Church in Pottstown.
“We are each individual gifted through our past heritage, present realities and future potential. We should never consider any cultural background as a challenge to future expectations and potential,” Rex said.
“Their future lies ahead of them, grounded upon heritage,” he said of the children present. “Let us celebrate their culture, rich in color and beauty and creativity, all of things are represented by this mural. Let’s lift up these Latino youth of today and give them the support they need to be the leaders of tomorrow.”
The project was approved by council at a time when there was controversy over a new ordinance governing murals.
However, this project met the new guidelines and was approved.
It is affixed to the wall of the former public works garage on Beech Street, across from the Olivet Boys & Girls Club.
However, it can be removed and erected somewhere else of the need arises.
This article first appeared as a post in The Digital Notebook blog.