Reflection On Las Cafeteras Band Performance
Las Cafeteras is a Chicano band originated from East Los Angeles which is a predominantly Hispanic and Latino oriented community. The group started to form and got their name from being around the Eastside Cafe and eventually getting the name of “Los Cafeteros” but with Spanish and English being a very male dominant language they decided to embrace the more feminine take and stay with the name Las Cafeteras. The performance group sings stories and songs in a live performance show about social justice. Their goal in their work is to give enjoyment and inspirational soundtracks which can give people an uplifting spirit as well as knowledge of what is happening in the world.
In the live performance on September 28th in the Green Music Center the band seemed to bring a serious matter of peace, justice and equality in a way that brings joy into people since a normal speech doesn’t really interest most individuals. Most of the songs that the group made made me realize different things throughout their performance on Mondays lecture as well as seeing them in person at the Green Music Center. Despite the fact I liked almost all of them the song I really relate to has to be “Trabajador Trabajadoras”. The reason I relate to it has to be the fact that hard work is what my family prioritized in me learning.
My Parents both do labor work, my mother working for her own family business as a housekeeper and my Dad working at an Elementary school as a Custodian. Although I didn't work had at a job they always had me focus in school and emphasized soccer since it gives many skills other than just playing a sport. The past summers I would go with my mom and help her clean houses. It wasn’t until I worked that I notice what the true value of 1 dollar really means. This really helped me admire what my parents do for me and it gave me a whole different perspective on life. The reason I really cherish the song is because it puts my simple words into a joyful, upbeat song that can get people dancing. The most interesting topic from the presentation that the band gave has to be the live performance that was given followed by the explanation. The Chicano band uses a certain type of beat that is considered Afro-Mexican and their rhythm goes along with century old lyrics to tell a specific story that seek justice as well as love.
Las Cafeteras really emphasized the fact that instead of stopping at borders it's up to the individual to find a way to cross them. I will always remember “borders are meant to be crossed” since they are very inspirational words which can help me in hard times especially now that I’m older and should share my story and let my words out other than have someone else tell my story.
