Evelina 100, a centennial celebration of the life and times of the late Dr. Evelina Antonetty, kicked off at Hostos Community College on Monday, September 12.
Hosted by Malin Falú, the opening ceremony set the stage for the week-long celebration honoring the memory of the great, late Puerto Rican activist and founder of the United Bronx Parents (UBP). Surrounded by stunning portraits painted in homage of Dr. Antonetty, Hostos President Daisy Cocco De Filippis offered greetings and reflected on the richness of the Bronx-based community advocate’s enduring influence and legacy.
“Should you ever question the power of one dedicated and determined person to change the world, two words should erase any doubt: Evelina Antonetty,” she shared. “Today marks the start of a week-long celebration of the life and legacy of this magnificent woman. Hers was a life of such achievement, we have set aside seven days to consider the roles she played in the history of Puerto Rico, the Bronx, the greater New York area, and — through her ever-shining example — the world.”
Antonetty’s sister and friend of the College Elba Cabrera, also known as
La Madrina de las Artes, and daughter Anita Antonetty, shared personal reflections on Antonetty’s life, advocacy within and beyond New York, and her numerous contributions as one of the most important figures of the Puerto Rican diaspora of the 20
th century. Additionally, the Antonetty family was presented with a proclamation on behalf of Congressman Ritchie Torres’ office and the honorable Guillermo Linares brought greetings on behalf of Governor Kathy Hochul.
Dr. Antonetty’s life and work were also celebrated in a special documentary short produced by BronxNet.
The centennial celebration of the life and times of Dr. Evelina Antonetty was organized by the Evelina 100 committee, co-chaired by Elba Cabrera and Nydia R. Edgecombe, Ph.D. The celebration will conclude on September 19, marking what would have been Dr. Antonetty’s 100
th birthday.
For the full schedule of planned events, visit
Evelina100.org/events/.