CLUB BASKETBALL RAZA UNIDA
In the vibrant tapestry of the Oaxacan community in California, the figure of Zeus García, visionary president and founder of the non-profit club "Raza Unida", stands out strongly. Since its establishment in 1986, this club has become a beacon of cultural promotion and integration through sport, leaving an indelible mark on Californian society.
Indigenous Culture on the Courts: The Seed of Raza Unida
With a mission to enrich community life, Raza Unida pioneered by creating the Oaxaca Cup in collaboration with the referees and scorers of Oaxaca’s basketball scene. The club made history by organizing the first youth basketball tournament, attracting 12 teams from various communities in 1998.
Recognition and Achievements: A Path of Success
Raza Unida’s commitment to youth did not go unnoticed. In 2000, the U.S. Census Bureau recognized them for their contribution to census promotion in Los Angeles County. The Benito Juárez García Cup in collaboration with Nueva Alianza Oaxaqueña and the prominent mention in “L A Weekly” solidified their position in Hollywood’s sports and cultural scene.
A Journey Beyond Borders: Raza Unida in Action
Raza Unida transcended borders by participating in the first Mexico Basketball Cup in 2002, uniting Mexican communities in the United States. In 2003, the creation of the “For a Common Good” Valley Cup reflected their commitment to the well-being and development of youth through fun and physical exercise.
Cultural Projection: Oaxaca Hoops and International Encounters
The 2003 documentary "Oaxaca Hoops," directed by journalist Olga Rodriguez, brought Oaxacan culture in fast-paced sports to various universities in the United States. Participating in the "Slam Dunk" panel to showcase Oaxacan culture in sports to the Japanese community in the heart of Los Angeles was another milestone in their journey.
© 2021 All Rights Reserved.
Honors and Strategic Alliances: A Community Leader
In 2004, the municipal president of the State of Oaxaca and current governor, Lic. Gabino Cue Monteagudo, presented the National Flag of Mexico to the club, marking a milestone in sports history. Raza Unida also stood out in the formation of the Oaxaca Institute and, by joining the Confederation of Mexican Federations in 2008, took the lead in sports events in its area.
Legacy and Promising Future: Raza Unida in the Next Decade
From the creation of the first Oaxaca youth league in 2009 to the formation of the Raza Unida Oax Mex club in 2010, the club continued to expand its influence. Invitations to international events and the organization of the youth league in 2011 signal a promising future
Call for Excellence: Oaxacan Youth at the Center Stage
In 2012, there was a call for excellence when Raza Unida summoned young people of Oaxacan origin to an octagonal tournament. This event not only highlighted athletic prowess but also the importance of representing Oaxacan culture in a cultural, sports, and educational encounter.
In summary, Raza Unida, under the visionary leadership of Zeus García, has woven a legacy of success, promoting indigenous culture through sports and leaving an enduring mark on the Oaxacan community in California. Their story is an inspiration for all those seeking integration, development, and cultural promotion through sports.