Building Community Through Art
The Story Behind "La Lotería del Barrio" Mural at Washington Elementary
Dr. Gema Godina, Principal of Washington Elementary School in Sacramento, speaks passionately about the impact of a new mural that has become a vibrant part of the school and the surrounding neighborhood. The mural, titled La Lotería del Barrio, is more than just a beautiful work of art. It’s a powerful representation of the cultural pride, history, and unity that have shaped the Washington neighborhood and its residents for decades. Painted by Professor Luis García, an Arts Professor at Sacramento State University, the mural captures the essence of Chicano culture and the deep-rooted sense of community that has persisted in this diverse part of the city.
Located in the heart of Sacramento’s Washington Neighborhood, Washington Elementary School has long served as a center of education for children in a community with strong ties to Latinx culture. Dr. Godina explains that the mural was a conscious effort to connect students, their families, and the broader community to their cultural roots. “We wanted to celebrate the vibrancy of the neighborhood, the spirit of our families, and the rich history that has shaped this place,” says Dr. Godina. The mural’s design is based on the traditional Mexican game of Lotería, a game similar to bingo, but with images and symbols that are iconic to Mexican culture. Each panel of the mural features these familiar Lotería images, such as the heart, the rooster, and the moon, reinterpreted through the lens of the Washington neighborhood’s experiences.
Professor Luis García, who designed and painted the mural, shares his vision for the project. "Art has the power to tell stories and to connect people to their past, to each other, and to the world around them,” García explains. For García, the mural was not just a personal project but a way to engage the entire community in the creative process. He worked closely with students, teachers, and families to ensure that the mural reflected their collective identity and aspirations. “This is a mural that tells the story of who we are and where we come from," says García. "It’s a way for the community to see itself in a positive light, celebrating the strength, resilience, and beauty of our culture.”
The mural also holds educational significance. As Dr. Godina points out, it serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural representation in schools and the wider community. “It’s so important for our students to see themselves reflected in the art and curriculum at school,” she says. The mural provides a space for students to connect with their heritage and fosters pride in their cultural identity. It also offers an opportunity for dialogue about the shared history of the neighborhood and the Chicano movement, which has played a key role in shaping the community. The mural is not just decorative; it’s an educational tool that encourages students to learn about their roots, their traditions, and the ongoing contributions of the Latinx community.
The La Lotería del Barrio mural is a testament to the power of art in building community and creating connections across generations. As Dr. Godina emphasizes, “Art has a way of bringing people together, and this mural has become a symbol of unity for our school and our neighborhood.” The mural has already become a landmark in the area, a source of pride for families and a visual representation of the rich cultural legacy of the Washington Neighborhood. By celebrating Chicano culture through such an accessible medium, Washington Elementary has not only enriched the educational experience of its students but has also provided a space for the community to come together and celebrate its shared history.
