The annual event, hosted by nonprofit American Indians in Texas- Spanish Colonial Missions (AIT), raises funds to protect the history and culture of the indigenous groups who once lived at the Spanish mission.
A special five-course dinner, curated by Chef Rebel Mariposa of La Botanica and Amado Casanova, executive chef at Todos Santos Ranch Lodge, will include sunflower risotto with wild harvest flowers, juniper-rubbed venison with nopal tomatillo salsa and a mesquite cookie with chile pequin.
"Many of these families have been here for years, and have been comadres and compadres for years, including the [two chefs]," said Karla L. Aguilar, Development & Cultural Arts Coordinator for AIT. "The menu itself will use the native plants of the area and honor the hunter-foraging lifestyle of the indigenous people who lived at the Spanish missions."
The dinner event will also honor Dr. Norma Cantú, an internationally-renowned Chicana writer and scholar, who has published both academic and creative works. Attendees can expect to see indigenous entertainment, raffles, prizes and a silent auction. Funds raised will benefit the AIT initiatives such as free doula services for women of color, access to health and educational resources and fatherhood programming.
"[The event]is super affordable, but the quality of the food is incredible," Aguilar said. "These are well-known and respected chefs."
General admission tickets cost $50 each, and are expected to sell out early. To learn more about the event or sponsorship opportunities, call (210) 227-4940. Event parking will be free and available on-site.
