Esperanza Peace and Justice Center will present the grand opening of the Museo del Westside, the realization of a dream sparked by the Westside community's fight to preserve their neighborhoods.

For years, the loss of historic buildings and the cultural way of life threatened the heart of the barrio. After the struggle to save La Gloria in 2002, community members formed the Corazones del Westside. They began gathering stories, nurturing a vision for a place that would honor our history.

That vision found its home in 2008 when Esperanza acquired Ruben’s Ice House. Built by the hard work of hundreds of contributors - from historians and architects to countless neighbors donating photos and artifacts - the Museo is a true community achievement.

Confirmed speakers include Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones and Councilwoman Teri Castillo, alongside retired professor Tomás Ybarra Frausto, the honorable María Antonietta Berriozábal, members of the Museo’s advisory committee and singer Blanquita Rodriguez. The morning's ceremonies will be emceed by La Chata Noelesca, a character brought to life by educator and performer Rita Urquijo-Ruiz.

The grand opening will feature musical performances, community workshops, and more.