On Sunday, October 13th, the Lechón y Alegría event at Lighthouse Field in North Philadelphia drew over a hundred community members for a day of live music, food, and voter outreach. Organized by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) Philadelphia Council 20009, the event aimed to boost civic participation in an area where voter turnout is often less than 15%.
Attendees enjoyed traditional lechón asado (roast pig) and a variety of other free food options. Music from Javy Swing De Guille and DJ Loso filled the air, while members of Los Rumberos Jeep Club danced to the beats of merengue that reminded participants of an afternoon in Guavate, Puerto Rico, a popular place in Puerto Rico with multiple options eat lechon, listen to traditional music, and dance.
Volunteers from LULAC Philly and We Love Philly were on hand to help people register to vote, learn about early voting options, and connect with local government resources. Spanish-speaking volunteers assisted attendees who needed help navigating the voter registration process, ensuring broad participation. Organizers emphasized the importance of engaging the Latino community in voting, especially in an area with historically low turnout.
“LULAC Philly believes that improving the lives of Latinos requires engaging them at all levels and departments of government, and voting is one of the many ways Latinos can become more civically engaged,” said Maridarlyn Gonzalez, President of LULAC Philadelphia Council 20009.
Carlos Aponte, Executive Director of We Love Philly, highlighted the involvement of young volunteers from his organization in the voter registration efforts, underscoring the importance of engaging youth in civic activities. “We Love Philly pre apprentices helped transport people to the 5th street Office to cast mail in ballots, registered People to vote, as well as collected signatures from people who pledged to vote on November 5th. They collaborated with LULAC members to make this happen! ”
Local vendors, including Simply Antojitos, provided additional food and refreshments, such as their popular limbers (frozen treats), contributing to the festive atmosphere. The event, which ran from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, brought together families and individuals of all ages, creating a multigenerational celebration of culture and civic responsibility.
The traditional lechon asado (or pig roast) was the signature piece of the event.
The Lechón y Alegria event committee thanks event participants, headed by LULAC Philadelphia Council President Maridarlyn Gonzalez.
