Located in Balboa Park, the Centro Cultural de la Raza is a non-profit organization with a goal to educate people by creating, preserving, and promoting the art and culture of the Native American, Mexican, Chicano, and Latino populations. A member of the American Alliance of Museums, the center houses cultural exhibits based on indigenous knowledge systems and traditions. The exhibits, along with classes and presentations, center around music, dance, drama, and arts and crafts.
Centro Cultural de la Raza hosts the Ballet Folklorico en Aztian, a dance academy, as well as provides meeting space for local groups and organizations. The 2,000-square-foot art gallery is the most popular part of the establishment, which is one of the first community-based cultural centers in the Southwest and has been in operation since the 1970s. Today, it is a haven for families, young men and women, adults, the houseless community, and much more.
Centro Cultural de la Raza is an inclusive community that caters to and respects all people of color and members of the LGBTQ community. The board of directors expects all volunteers and visitors to do so with respect. When you visit the Centro Cultural de la Raza, you will be visiting a true safe haven.