During Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 – Oct 15), Austin FC celebrates the contributions of local Latino leaders who shape the city. The Club will host its annual Hispanic Heritage Night during its match against Real Salt Lake on September 28. The event will feature Mariachi Voz de Pasion performing at various locations, including Telco Terrace during Q2’s pre-match and an instrumental version of the U.S. National Anthem.
In collaboration with local nonprofit Latinitas and partner Kendra Scott, Austin FC recently hosted an event at Q2 Stadium where young students shared their experiences and inspirations. Additionally, Austin FC and partner O’Reilly Auto Parts honored John Colugna, a car enthusiast, local Lowrider club legend, and M.A.S. Cultura Community Leader.
Austin FC’s Hispanic Heritage Month social initiative highlights Alex Vallejo, a prominent Latino community leader in the local music scene. Vallejo is a co-founder drummer of the award-winning rock band VALLEJO, VP of Austin music label VMG (Vallejo Music Group), board member and artist consultant at Austin Music Foundation, operations director for School of Rock, member of the EQ Austin advisory board, and partner and talent buyer for EPS Presents.
Austin FC interviewed Vallejo to understand the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Q: How do we continue to create and protect communities that are founded in diversity, representation, and belonging?
Vallejo: "I personally would like to see more Latin and diversity-centric options in Austin for festivals and concerts in different languages, which I think Austin FC is embracing beautifully with diverse national anthem performances, Latin DJs, and local hip hop artists. Our city’s rich arts culture is such an important part of what makes Austin such a special eclectic melting pot with its many musical genres and influences. Hispanics and the black community have always been here, so it’s of vital importance that Austin stays true to its roots and our story is always being told. That’s the sound of our city."
Q: What is the legacy that you want to leave?
Vallejo: "Someone that had a supporting role in helping create better opportunities for Austin’s music ecosystem. My goal currently is to help create more opportunities for local artists and provide free affordable music education at various music hubs in Austin for low-income and underserved communities. Everyone that would like to play music or learn about the business of music should have the chance to experience that opportunity."
Q: Music is said to be one of this world's universal languages. What is it about music that brings people together, especially in our city of Austin?
Vallejo: "For me personally, it’s the rhythm since I’m a drummer at heart. But nothing is more universal to me than a great melody or harmony tied to a live emotion or feeling from an amazing musical performance. Music is such a powerful force that has the magic to amplify a message or just take you away from your everyday problems. I’m also involved with School of Rock (in Southpark Meadows and Round Rock), so I have witnessed the effect music has on a student’s musical, emotional and social development. There will always be a person that strikes that first chord or drum and immediately feels the power of music right there in their hands."