Mexican community honoured at nomination for prestigious Cork award

The Mexican Community group in Cork are among the nominees for the Lord Mayor’s Community and Voluntary Awards in the Arts, Culture, Recreation and Heritage category.

The group aims to support the integration of its members in Cork while promoting Mexican culture and traditions.

The Mexican Community in Cork have become a common feature of Cork social and cultural life, being present in different festivals and parades such as the St Patrick’s Day Parade and Shandon Family Festival.

They have also supported multicultural festivals, refugee and International Women’s Day celebrations, attend schools to share Mexican traditions, and regularly guest at UCC and MTU classes discussing Mexico, its art, diversity, and social dilemmas.

The Mexican Community in Cork have raised funds for Penny Dinners and Cork Simon Community, and also for disaster relief back in Mexico.

On a national level, the group also supports Latina Women Against Violence and Latin American Solidarity Centre initiatives.

Speaking to The Echo on being nominated for a Community and Voluntary Award, Mexican Community in Cork chairperson Cecilia Gámez said it was a huge honour to all involved in the group.

“When we heard about it, we were thrilled,” she said. “It was a surprise. Normally we do things, but we never really look for reward.

“We never thought we would be nominated for this one. So it was a surprise, but we were thrilled.

“At the same time, it is a recognition for people who are doing all of this work on a volunteer basis.

“I was talking to someone and they were really surprised that we were volunteers. We don’t get any money from anywhere. So I think being nominated is a good recognition of the time and all of the effort that a lot of people put into working for not only our Mexican Community in Cork, but also with other projects within the community.”

The Mexican Community in Cork aims to motivate members to make a positive impact on Cork life. The group look to bring positive attention to the other international communities on Leeside, and also engage with those groups positively.