The Hispanic population is the largest non-traditional minority group in Metro Atlanta. Latino immigration to the area surged in the 1990s, driven by the construction boom linked to the 1996 Olympics. This influx has transformed the city’s cultural landscape, with three Mexican-owned radio stations broadcasting in Spanish and the number of Spanish-language newspapers increasing from three in 1997 to eleven by 1999.
The mural “Mi Gente,” created by Mexican artist, activist, and entrepreneur Yehimi Cambrón, showcases the diverse narratives of “everyday” people within Atlanta’s Latinx community—ranging from prominent leaders to those whose contributions are less recognized. Cambrón addresses themes of education, labor, gender, political advocacy, and activism through these larger portraits and accompanying vignettes. A digital guided tour is available to explore the story behind the mural further.
“Atlanta con Sabor Latino” is a bilingual lifestyle series that highlights Latin culture and cuisine through the stories of Latinos living in Atlanta told through a 30-minute, 6-episode documentary.
TBD
Yarbrough, R.A. Becoming “Hispanic” in the “New South”: Central American immigrants’ racialization experiences in Atlanta, GA, USA. GeoJournal 75, 249–260 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10708-009-9304-7
