In Memory of Soraya Medina
¡Soraya Medina presente! There are some people who come into your life and show up in the most expansive ways. Soraya Medina, also known by her monikers on social media as @nenagalactic and @godmother213, is one of them. On December 12 she ascended to peace and is deeply missed. She was a mother, daughter, sister, friend, activist, health practitioner and advocate, gardener, dancer, healer and community warrior, who repped Los Angeles proudly as a Pilipana-Boricua (Taino)...and Chicana! She was a ubiquitous one - all city - crossing paths with hundreds of people in her work and personal life, and especially being present for local events by and for her beloved community.
Artwork by @pinkrobotboogaloo.
A beautiful communal altar was created in her name this week at La Tierra de la Culebra park in Highland Park (240 S. Ave 57 LA, CA. 90065), a place that Soraya advocated for and helped to develop into a creative neighborhood space. The large oak tree at the entrance of La Culebra is one that she planted with her brothers and will forever be a Godmother tree to remind us of her spirit. Soraya planted many seeds for good in her lifetime and although we are deeply saddened to learn of her passing, we also look forward to seeing the fruits of her labor flourish and bloom for the next seven generations. She is survived by her daughters, Sienna and Violeta, her Mother Cindy, Father Felix, Brothers Omar and Neo and partner, Yuki.
The last day to visit the communal altar is December 21, 2020, on the winter solstice. Friends of Soraya can also share their memories of her in the “Godmother Soraya Medina” public Facebook group page here. A Go Fund Me to support her legacy, in consultation with her immediate family, has also been established. Should you wish to donate to this cause, learn more here.
Lastly, please tune in December 21 at 9:00 p.m., for a very special radio transmission, “Anything for Soraya”, on 101.5FM KQBHLA or listen live on LPFM.LA. Update: Listen to the archived radio show here. (Artwork pictured by Pink Robot Boogaloo. Photos by Jennifer Cuevas.)
A community altar, created by Artist Lilia Ramirez and friends, will remain on view for the community through December 21, 2020.
La Tierra de la Culebra park is a neighborhood creative and contemplative space in Highland Park, championed by Soraya Medina.
Jennifer Cuevas is SHG’s Communications Consultant. She is a Cultural Arts Producer, with a passion for the arts, social justice and policy.