On Sunday, the Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs, or ALMAS, is hosting a traditional ribbon braid event that’s meant to raise funds for local community groups helping families impacted by federal immigration enforcement.
The event, which is being organized by ALMAS’s Youth Advisory Council, will feature ribbon braiding, face painting and food and drinks, according to a press release from ALMAS. There will also be community resource tables and Know Your Rights sessions.
The event on Sunday — which is being called “Ponte Tus Monos,” or “Put on Your Bows” — will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at Nide Jardin at 140 S. River St., Unit 106, in Aurora, organizers said.
ALMAS is a Latino-led nonprofit organization that was founded in 2023 in Naperville, the organization’s news release said. The group aims to “(celebrate) diverse Latino cultures and stories while fostering community connections and empowering individuals through education, youth leadership development, civic engagement and cultural initiatives.” This event is being organized by the group’s youth leadership program.
Traditional ribbon braids will be available throughout the event, with pricing dependent on design and complexity, the news release said. The organization is also accepting tips and additional donations, with all proceeds from the event benefiting Aurora Rapid Response and the Naperville Solidarity Network of ALMAS to support mutual aid and community efforts meant to help families affected by immigration enforcement.
Ribbon braiding is a practice that has deep roots across Latin America, the news release said. The braids are rooted in Indigenous tradition, and the practice evolved over time to include the addition of ribbons during the colonial period. Today, they symbolize cultural pride, resistance, solidarity and healing, according to the organization.
“Young people in our community are stepping forward to turn cultural traditions into collective care,” ALMAS President Lili Burciaga said in the news release.