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WHEREAS, Matanzas, Cuba, only 38 miles from Havana, is the port where the majority of slaves that came to this hemisphere were processed and distributed, making it the historical site of Afro-Cuban culture; and,
WHEREAS, Los Muñequitos de Matanzas, considered by many to be the most important rumba group in Cuba, was formed in 1952 in a bar in the neighborhood of Marina in Matanza, Cuba when a group of working-class youths began playing to the rhythms of a song on a tabletop using only dishes, bottles, and spoons; and,
WHEREAS, with three generations of members currently in the group, Los Muñequitos de Matanzas has been instrumental in the preservation of treasured musical traditions, while simultaneously looking to their Spanish heritage for inspiration; and,
WHEREAS, Los Muñequitos de Matanzas had charmed audiences with their authentic Afro-Cuban drumming, captivating vocals and spectacular dancing throughout the United States on their many tours; and,
WHEREAS, on April 28, 2011, for the first time in over 12 years, Los Muñequitos de Matanzas will return to the U.S. to perform at Pittsburgh's very own August Wilson Center; and,
WHEREAS, Mantanzas, also known as the City of Bridges, and the City of Pittsburgh became Sister Cities in 1992, and have continued to build and nurture their relationship.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize the African and Cuban historical and cultural significance of Matanzas , commends and congratulates Matanzas for the economic and cultural connections to Pittsburgh through its respected Sister City relationship and welcomes Grammy nominated Los Muñequitos de Matanzas to the City of Pittsburgh; and,
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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare April 28, 2011, to be "Los Muñequitos De Matanzas Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.