05/05/2026
Happy Cinco de Mayo 🇲🇽✨
Cinco de Mayo is often celebrated big here in the U.S., but many don’t realize it commemorates Mexico’s victory at the Battle of Puebla—not Independence Day.
For our family, it’s more than a celebration… it’s legacy. ❤️
This year, Alexis and I had the honor of celebrating in true Martinez fashion—alongside family in the Eastside San Jose parade, part of the Grand Marshal entourage with my uncle, Ramon Martinez, PhD. A full-circle moment that meant more than most would know. ✨
Because here’s what makes this personal—
My dad Gilbert Martinez was the founder who brought the first Cinco de Mayo celebration to the city of Dinuba in the early 1980s, alongside other longtime community members & my Mom Josie Martinez
This city boy from Bakersfield followed my mom to Dinuba—and helped create something that still lives on today.
The parade, the Queen and Princess traditions, the carnival, the music…
what our community celebrates today started with vision, pride, and a deep love for culture and community.
From the Chicano movement to local organizations and small businesses, my parents built a life of service—and a legacy that continues.
And now… I carry that forward. 🙏🏽
So today, I don’t just celebrate a holiday—
I celebrate family, culture, and the legacy we continue to build.
The Martinez name carries history—and I’m honored to be part of it. ❤️
