Living in the state capital, we are fortunate to be a part of a rich tradition that celebrates and champions diversity. From the workers' rights movement of 1960s, led by the venerable Cesar Chavez, to the 1992 election of the city's first Latino Mayor, Joe Serna, Sacramento is, and has been, at the forefront of promoting the importance of a multicultural society.

The 40 Acres Art Gallery, Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, the Royal Chicano Air Force and others will be following in this heady tradition with a celebration of art, community and the entrepenurial spirit Saturday, May 9, 2009, from 5 to 10 p.m., at Fiesta Night, a street festival celebrating diversity in Oak Park.

The event will highlight the unique characteristics of the Oak Park community by displaying the neighborhood's rich, multicultural identity through a showcase of art, music and food.

The festivities kick off at 5 p.m. with the opening ceremonies that will include the breaking of a pinata to commemorate Cinco de Mayo.

Organizers of the street fair also hope to re-create the lively atmosphere of Sacramento's bustling Second Saturday Art Walk by featuring events, presentations and art exhibitions that include a temporary, kinetic public art installation by artist Bryan Tedrick, a viewing of classic low-rider cars presented by Family First Car Club as well as a celebration of the hands-on, community tile project of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services Women's Wisdom Program.

One of the highlights of the evening is sure to be the Oak Park history slide show presented by the legendary Royal Chicano Air Force. The civic-minded, Sacramento art collective, founded in 1969, will also present an exhibition of Native American and Chicano art. 

Tours of the Immaculate Conception Church and grounds will also be provided to those in attendance as the church celebrates its 100 year anniversary.

More information about Fiesta Night can be found at www.40acresartgallery.org.