History:

Lubbock holds a wealth of diversity and multicultural backgrounds. Since its inception as a city, many Mexican American families were drawn to this West Texas region. For different reasons each found Lubbock appealing and unique from other communities. While some of these families came as visionaries, seeking out educational and business opportunities, others came as migrant farm workers to labor in the vast cotton fields, in hope of supporting their families and securing a quality way of life. By happenstance they became permanent residents, and vastly contributed to the development and history of Lubbock.

In light of some negative stereotypes, and misunderstandings existing in the community, civic leaders decided to utilize cultural arts as a way to educate the public and curtail some of the racial tensions. Various community members worked tenaciously to promote the history, culture, and heritage of Mexican Americans in hope of unifying the various ethnic and racial groups in Lubbock, as well as a form of educating other groups, while maintaining and instilling pride.

As the face of Lubbock changed, a group of civic-minded volunteers joined together to build awareness and sustain the rich Mexican heritage they shared. Many of the families that had migrated to Lubbock from areas with high Mexican populations were accustomed to participating in traditional "Fiestas Patrias", festivals in observance of Mexican Independence Day.