The day honors people of all abilities through music and dance.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Dozens of families, friends and caregivers gathered at the Boys & Girls Club Saturday for the third annual Special Hearts Day Celebration, a day that honors people of all abilities through music and dance.

For almost a decade, Special Hearts in the Arts has created a place where performers can shine. Saturday’s celebration also highlighted the statewide proclamation officially recognizing Monday, December 8 as Special Hearts Day in Texas.

The proclamation was announced by County Commissioner John Marez.

The program featured music, choreography and short performances by Special Hearts in the Arts participants. 

The crowd enjoyed colorful Folklorico performances and holiday favorites.

Performer Vicky Hinojosa shared what this organization means to her and her friends.

“We like to be noticed for our performances and we, we love to, we love to open up and be ourselves. And Sherry brings that out in us. She lets us be ourselves. She lets us portray our abilities without, you know, negative, negative answers or negative comments, and she just lets us be ourselves,” said Hinojosa.

Local organizers said the event is about more than entertainment it’s a community statement about inclusion and the importance of providing safe spaces for people of all abilities to express themselves. 3News anchor Leslie Adami served as Saturday morning’s emcee.