In the middle of the joyful Filipino town in Los Angeles is the Nation’s first-ever Filipino-themed public park called Unidad Park. This park was formerly a community garden transformed into a wonderful public space made possible through the sponsorship of the Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA). Now, it serves as a popular meeting spot among the locals and a place that celebrates Filipino-American History. It is also the home of the Nation’s Largest Filipino American mural Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamana (Filipino Americans: A Glorious History, A Golden Legacy) painted by the Filipino mural artist Eliseo Art Silva.
Photo Credits to: Social and Public Art Resource Center
The painting vibrantly illustrates the heroic Filipino and Filipino-American figures Jose Rizal, Lapu-Lapu, Larry Itliong, and many more, educating locals and tourists about the rich history and culture of the Philippines. Through this art, Filipinos can celebrate their roots alongside spreading the message of Filipino identity in a foreign country. The intricate details also showcase the innate artistry and creativity of Filipino artists. No wonder the park attracts locals and tourists visiting the vicinity!
More than just a legacy, Unidad park is also a symbol of “Unity” among the communities who contributed on building the place. The members of the community were actively participating in the beautification of the park. Local residents also made huge efforts in keeping the park lively by offering free Zumba Classes, workshops on gardening, composting, as well as healthy living.
As vivid as it may be, according to the Social and Public Art Resource Center, the park has suffered neglect which caused damages to the famous Filipino American mural, but constant restorations are being made to preserve this cultural masterpiece.
As vivid as it may be, according to the Social and Public Art Resource Center, the park has suffered neglect which caused damages to the famous Filipino American mural, but constant restorations are being made to preserve this cultural masterpiece.
By visiting the Unidad Park, we are not just honoring the Filipino American Legacy. We are also contributing to the cultivation of talents and artistry that we should all cherish and celebrate in the current era.
Do you know any more interesting parks around California? Let us know in the comments!
Written by: Monina Antonio
References:
Do you know any more interesting parks around California? Let us know in the comments!
Written by: Monina Antonio
References:
https://sparcinla.org/silva/
https://www.lanlt.org/unidad-park-community-garden
Monina Antonio is a digital marketing intern of PS Media Enterprise. She is currently a 3rd-year Broadcasting student from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines- Sta. Mesa.
https://www.lanlt.org/unidad-park-community-garden
Monina Antonio is a digital marketing intern of PS Media Enterprise. She is currently a 3rd-year Broadcasting student from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines- Sta. Mesa.
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