A People’s History of the Inland Empire Digital Archive

Recognition of the participation of St. Mary's Ballet Folkorico in 4th of July Festivities

2022.006.004

document

A certificate recognizing the participation of St. Mary's Ballet Folkorico in the 1980 Redlands July 4th celebrations. The certificate reads "In grateful recognition...We, as fellow Americans and representatives of the citizens of Redlands, commemorating the Declaration of Independence for these our United States on this fourth day of July 1980, wish to express our sincere appreciation and everlasting indebtedness. We would commend and hold in highest honor St Mary's Ballet Folklorico who, believing in the equality of all men, and in serving our country, did unselfishly sacrifice of himself that all men, everywhere, might obtain for themselves, and their posterity the fruits of Man's unalienable Rights - LIFE, LIBERTY, and FREEDOM." The declaration is signed by Carmelo P. "Charlie" Berlingeri and Ethel D. Berlingeri listed as the "Parade Co-Chairmen". St. Mary's Ballet Folklorico was established at the behest of parents by Petra Lopez, Mary L. Hernandez, Juan Jose Ruiz de la Torre, and Jose Pepe Roa in 1974. Originally the group was supported by St Mary's Catholic Church but later relocated to Orangewood High School. Since 1974 the group has performed across Southern California.

St. Mary's Ballet Folklorico of Redlands

Cultural Celebrations

Redlands (Calif.)

1974- 1980

Carmelo P. "Charlie" Berlingeri and Ethel D. Berlingeri

7/4/1980

Inland Mexican Heritage

.tif

English

Vasquez, Antonio Gonzalez, and Genevieve Carpio. Mexican Americans in Redlands. Charleston, S.C: Arcadia Publishing, 2012.