 "Photo: William Atkinson")
A plan 30 years in the making was realized Saturday when the Mexican-American Cultural Center opened its doors to a tearful, jubilant crowd.
A traditional Aztec dancing group and girls on horseback helped usher in the celebration on Lady Bird Lake.
"A beautiful dream has come true," said Gloria Pennington, master of ceremonies for the grand opening of the MACC.
The cultural center was originally the idea of a group of Mexican-American artists and intellectuals in the 1970s. But the idea was met with difficulty throughout the years; its supporters were unable to get it on the city bond ballot until 1992. It did not pass until 1998. Construction delays later followed due to financial concerns until the groundbreaking in November 2005.
The entire community helped make the center's existence possible, said former Austin mayor Gus Garcia, recognizing all of the individuals and politicians that helped along the way. He added that he hopes the center will be a place where people can enjoy the culture available to them.
"Finally the Hispanic and Latino community have a place to visit and explore history and the arts," said Joe Estrada, a management information systems sophomore and Mexican American Culture Committee chair. "We can experience the beautiful treasures inherited through time, visually and emotionally, along with its integration with our modern-day society."
Many Mexican-Americans statewide, like Austin resident Ameleia Salazar, received postcard notifications informing them about the event.
"Things like this really bring the community together and make you want to get more involved," Salazar said.
Opening day events showcased what the center has to offer, from a performance studio to an art gallery. There are also rooms for large-scale meetings, an outdoor children's theater and an author's den.
Two more construction phases are planned for the center. The next will add approximately 14,000 square feet to the center, with the final phase adding 20,000 square feet.
Each addition will also require more bond money to be allocated to the MACC, which voters will decide on in future elections.
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