Capitol News

The Detroit Lions will recognize Latino Heritage Month by transforming their Pride Plaza tailgate into Plaza de los Leones for the team's Week 2 regular season game against the Chicago Bears at Ford Field. The event, which is free and open to fans on Brush Street, will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., ahead of the game's 1 p.m. kickoff.

Lex Zavala, Interim Executive Director of the Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation (DHDC), will serve as emcee and spokesperson for the event's Latino heritage programming. The celebration aims to honor and highlight Detroit's Latino community through a variety of activities, including traditional dance performances, live music, interactive experiences for fans, and discussions about Latino culture.

Scheduled activities include performances by Ballet Folklorico de Detroit, with shows beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Adams Street and continuing with smaller group presentations on stage later in the morning. Fans can also participate in Salsa and Bachata dance lessons led by instructor Mino Bachatero at 10:00 a.m. and 11:05 a.m., respectively.

Mariachi Mexico 2020 will provide musical entertainment throughout the plaza and perform on stage at 11:45 a.m. Local artist Elton Monroy Duran will create a live painting inspired by his Lion sculpture made from auto parts, reflecting both Detroit’s automotive history and its Latino community. This artwork will be auctioned on the Detroit Lions Foundation site, with proceeds benefiting Mexicantown Community Development Corporation. Attendees can view the sculpture and receive commemorative postcards and coloring sheets provided by Corpus Art Inc.

Ford Motor Company will showcase its new F-150 Lobo truck during the event, allowing fans to interact with the vehicle that combines cultural influences with American performance features.

Additional attractions include face painting by "Gracie the Clown," contributing to the festive atmosphere celebrating art and culture.

Since 2024, the Detroit Lions have emphasized honoring Michigan's Latino contributions through events like Plaza de los Leones, incorporating music, food, movement, and recognizing Latinos making an impact in the community during game breaks.