Roberta Martinez is the Community Grand Marshall for the Latino Heritage Parade

Community activist and long-time Pasadena resident Roberta H. Martinez has been selected as the Community Grand Marshall for next month’s Latino Heritage Parade and jamaica.

This year’s theme is Nuetras Mismas Raices (Our Common Roots) celebrating the diversity of cultures within the Latino community.

The Grand Marshall will be Josefina Lopez, writer, director and activist best known as the author of the play “Real Women Have Curves,” now playing at the Pasadena Playhouse. Lopez also co-authored the screenplay for the movie version.

Martinez is currently the volunteer Executive Director of Latino Heritage. She is a local historian and published author who wrote “Latinos in Pasadena” in 2009. She currently lives in Pasadena with her husband, James Grimes.

Martinez also serves as a board member of the Pasadena Senior Center, serving on the Governance Committee. Martinez has been writing her blog “A Pasadena Latina,” since 2010.

Martinez has had extensive experience teaching and has been active in many local civic organizations and has received many awards and recognition for her civic work.

She currently works as an independent consultant and researcher.

The Latino Heritage Parade and jamaica is scheduled on Saturday, October 24th. The parade begins at 11:00 a.m. and is followed by a celebration of cultural activities, food and dance from 12 noon until 4:00 p.m.

This year, the parade begins at the intersection of Los Robles Avenue and Howard Street, then turns west on Washington Boulevard and culminates at La Pistoresca with the jamaica. The festival features art exhibits, artisans, educational and historical displays, entertainment, food stands and a community booth.

All interested individuals, schools, organizations and community groups that wish to take part in the Latino Heritage Parade or jamaica should contact the Villa-Parke Community Center at (626) 744-6530. For more, visit http://www.cityofpasadena.net/LatinoHeritage/