March 18, 2009

Dear Unity Council Supporters:

After a great deal of consideration, the Unity Council has decided not to present the Fruitvale Dia De Los Muertos Festival for 2009. Due to the economic downturn and rising production costs, we have made the most responsible decision possible in canceling the festival this year, and re-introducing the Dia De Los Muertos celebration in 2010.

All of us at the Unity Council believe that Dia De Los Muertos is a holiday of tremendous cultural importance, and a tradition that deserves careful preservation. It is with this in mind that we plan to present a new iteration of the festival in 2010. We envision a festival with a clearer focus on family and tradition.

To those who hoped to sponsor the 2009 event, we ask that you please consider redirecting your support to our planned celebration of the Unity Council's 45 th anniversary event, set to take place this fall in Oakland . More information will be forthcoming in the near future.

Warm regards,

Gilda Gonzales
CEO