Para leer en español sobre la exposición “Semillas de Resiliencia: Barrio Americano,” haz clic aquí.
As the nation reflects on 250 years of United States history, Seeds of Resilience: Barrio Americano invites visitors to consider the many communities whose contributions have shaped the country, even when they have not always been fully recognized. The exhibition centers Mexican American histories in the Long Beach region, offering insight into how people organized their lives and navigated social and economic challenges.
Following the Mexican American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, Mexicanos remained closely tied to this region while facing unequal access to rights and opportunities. In response, barrios emerged as spaces of collective care, cultural preservation, and resistance. Through installations reflecting an early twentieth-century barrio, the exhibition examines how everyday spaces sustained community life in the face of discrimination.
Visitors encounter familiar settings such as the neighborhood, the home, and places of organizing and care. Together, these environments highlight the contributions of Mexican Americans and invite reflection on what it has meant—and continues to mean—to seek belonging in the United States.
This exhibition will be on view for one year and reflects Rancho Los Cerritos’ ongoing commitment to sharing histories that represent the communities of Long Beach while fostering learning, dialogue, and connection across generations. It also contributes to a citywide reflection on the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, alongside future Seeds of Resilience exhibitions by partner institutions that will further explore the region’s histories.
Opening Weekend
February 7-8, 2026
Rancho Los Cerritos will host an opening day celebration on Saturday, February 7 from 3:00 – 6:00p.m., and the site will be closed to visitors prior to that time. The opening day celebration will include crafts and children’s activities, tours of the historic adobe home, and coffee and pastries courtesy of The Breakfast Bar, inspired by sobremesa—the tradition of lingering together to share time and conversation.
On Sunday, February 8, the exhibition will remain open with extended public hours from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. While there will be no scheduled opening festivities on Sunday, visitors are invited to experience the exhibition throughout the day.
RSVP for opening weekend.
Acknowledgements
Rancho Los Cerritos gratefully acknowledges Platinum Sponsor Port of Long Beach for its generous support of Seeds of Resilience: Barrio Americano and the opening celebration. Additional support for the opening festivities is provided in part by the Arts Council for Long Beach and the City of Long Beach.
