Saturday, October 22, marked the first annual, “Great Family Event and Concert” at Sloss Lake in Russellville, hosted by the Bethania Family Christian Church. Jose Sanchez, 13-year pastor of the church, was eager to host an event to bring the community together.
“This is a perfect opportunity to spread the word of God to Russellville,” Sanchez said.
Sanchez’s long time friend, Evelyn Servin, saw this festival as an opportunity to spread awareness on the importance of voting. Servin has been working with the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Services (ACIJ) to inform Hispanic communities on the issues facing families. ACIJ is a grass-roots, statewide network of individuals and organizations that works to advance and defend the rights of immigrants in Alabama.
“We have many activities going on, including inflatables, face-painting and free food,” Servin said at Saturday’s event. “Our goal is to have a hundred people register to vote today. We just want the Latinos to be informed. We are not trying to persuade people to vote for a certain candidate, but to just be informed and make an educated choice for the presidential race. “
Long-time equal rights activist Rev. Charles Dale of Russellville attended the festival and was happy to walk about and meet everyone and support the cause.
“We all are one family,” Dale said. “The Bible says one faith, one family and one God.”
The festival had an excellent turn-out, and Sanchez hopes to continue and expand this event next year.
