53 migrants who died in smuggling disaster honored in mural titled ‘Sacrificios’

SAN ANTONIO — Community members gathered at Mission County Park Wednesday morning for the dedication of a mural that honors 53 migrants who perished on San Antonio’s south side two years ago.

Precinct 1 Bexar County Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores commissioned the nonprofit organization, Luminaria, to create a mural that pays tribute to the migrants who were left in abandoned semi-truck trailer along Quintana Road. The youngest victim was 13-years-old.

“It was really important for me to make sure that we do this so that we don’t get forget and that we honor the memory of the 53 victims who risked their lives,” Clay-Flores said.

The mural, called “Sacrificios,” illustrates the struggles endured by migrants. Depicted are butterflies, vegetation from Mexico and Central America, running water and starry sky filled with the 53 victims’ initials.

The ceremony featured a Native American blessing by Isaac “Papa Bear” Cardenas , reading of poetry by State Poet Laureate of Texas, Carmen Tafolla and music by Rachel Martinez and Aaron Salinas. During the event, a plaque was unveiled as well.

“We’re talking about people that had hope, people that wanted to do better,” said Yadhira Lozano, Luminaria executive director. “The monarchs have come to be a symbol of migration, of travel. The water represents nature. It also represents the Rio Bravo or the Rio Grande, however you want to call it. And that’s the border, the imaginary border that we put on people because of politics.”

Commissioner Clay-Flores has a message for everyone who visits the mural at Mission County Park.

“I hope that this mural serves as a reminder of the work that we have yet to do as global citizens. Instead of focusing on everything that divides us, we think of the things that unite us as human beings,” Clay-Flores said.

To learn more about Luminaria, visit the website here.