Hispanic Heritage Month: Taste of East Camden Sparks Community Connections
Line of vendor tents are seen at the Taste of Camden on Saturday, Sept. 13. Photo by Aaliyah Collins
BY AALIYAH COLLINS | For AC JosepH Media
CAMDEN — The Taste of East Camden event organizers reached their goal of inspiring the community on Saturday, Sept. 13 by building connections, teaching residents on how to start a business, as they enjoyed local dishes, watched live performances, checked out the car show, and engaged with one another.
Camden Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ), the City of Camden, and Saint Joseph’s Carpenter Society put together this festival to give the community a Taste of East Camden right at the busiest commercial corridor.
UEZ gives resources to businesses to lower their sales taxes and to improve the facades of their buildings, according to Felix Moulier, project manager for Saint Joseph’s Carpenter Society.
Plenty of growth opportunities were given such as resource providers, health care providers, assistance with job preparation, pointers on how to start a business, and people selling their work such as art and books.
Moulier began planning for this event just about 7 weeks prior. He aimed to show people that there is more to Camden than what is portrayed in the media.
“There’s so much more in this city and I want people to recognize that,” said Moulier. “That’s what the purpose of this is.”
Everyone has the potential to do something great and make a difference. Some things that can get in the way are the lack of motivation to do so or simply not knowing where to start. This day was all about providing that to all residents and neighbors.
Businesses and organizations set up tables with information, resources, and free items to take home. It wasn’t just a business seminar where one had to wear a tie and a blazer. It was an event where people could dress how they wanted and enjoy themselves all the while broadening their knowledge.
There was even a table that encouraged and assisted residents to register to vote.
“That’s what this community is all about. It takes up a village,” said Angel Fuentes, president of the Camden City Council. “We want to make sure that we all grow together in fellowship and have respect for one another.”
People of all ages danced, sang, played, talked to one another, enjoyed delicious food, and utilized all of the resources that were made available to them. There was something for everyone.
Children played games, jumped in bouncy houses, made friends throughout the entire festival, got their faces painted, and got to enjoy free, cold, ice cream from Mister Softee on one of the final days of summer.
There was a variety of different foods to choose from, and everyone’s meal was free. Some food vendors included Mylestone Catering, La Ingrata, and Gita’s Mobile Cafe.
Residents sang and danced to the musical performances by Judy Torres, Grupo Mania, and DJ Slice.
Cars lined up towards the end of the event displaying unique designs and engines.
Overall, the day was a success. Everyone took something home with them whether it was food, handouts, or inspiration.
“This is our city, we love our city, and we have to work together,” said Fuentes.
Camden Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen says that this will be the first of many festivals to come every year. A day for everyone to flourish and to appreciate the many cultures of the community.
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