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About Us – Nuestra Lucha MN
Nuestra Lucha MN was founded by Viviana Salazar out of a deep commitment to cultural preservation and community empowerment. Growing up in Jalisco, Mexico, Viviana loved folkloric dance but often faced economic barriers that made it difficult to participate. Those experiences shaped a promise: that no child should feel excluded from celebrating their culture because of financial hardship.
After moving to North Minneapolis as a single mother, Viviana recognized a lack of culturally rooted opportunities for Latino youth and families. In 2023, with support from the Partnership Engagement Fund and the Victory Neighborhood Association, she launched Nuestra Lucha MN.
What began as folkloric dance classes has grown into a community-driven organization that celebrates Latino culture, supports families, and builds opportunities for youth. Today, Nuestra Lucha MN creates spaces where culture, belonging, and community leadership can thrive.
Nuestra Lucha MN is committed to engaging the Latino community and ensuring the preservation of its culture. The organization thrives on collaboration, community empowerment, and civic engagement, fostering a strong, supportive environment where cultural heritage can flourish.
Nuestra Lucha MN provides dance lessons representing the rich traditions of Mexico, Cuba, and Peru, among others. With the expertise of instructor Rosalinda, each performance is tailored to reflect the cultural diversity of the events they participate in. The group has proudly performed at Broadway Open Streets, Live Your Healthy Lyfe, and multicultural events across Monticello, Chaska, and Eagan, MN. In 2025, we made history, proudly becoming the first Latino group to perform at the first-ever Latino cultural event in Red Wing, Minnesota.
More Than Dance-A Community Resource
Recently, Nuestra Lucha MN partnered with Haven Pantry, a local food shelf, to help distribute essential food resources to families experiencing hardship. This collaboration ensures that families have access to nutritious food while strengthening the network of support available to the North Minneapolis community.
In addition to food distribution, Nuestra Lucha MN has mobilized community support to provide rental assistance to families facing housing instability, helping neighbors remain safely housed during challenging economic times. Through community donations and partnerships with local leaders and businesses, this initiative has already helped dozens of families stabilize their housing and meet immediate needs.
Nuestra Lucha MN also continues to create spaces where community members can access important information and services. Through initiatives like “Preguntas y Respuestas con Abogadas de Inmigración,” the organization hosted a free event with immigration attorneys to ensure families could receive reliable legal guidance and ask questions in a safe and supportive environment.
Through cultural programming, community partnerships, and direct support services, Nuestra Lucha MN remains committed to uplifting the Latino community in North Minneapolis. The organization’s work ensures that no child, family, or individual is left without opportunities to celebrate their heritage, access resources, and build a stronger future together.
faq
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join your Dance classes?
We welcome anyone that is 4 years of age and older.
Is there a cost to Join?
We accept donations to cover expenses, but there is no cost to join.
How long is the commitment?
We operate in Quarterly cycles with automatic renewals, but individuals can join at any time. If a class will be missed, we ask that you notify the instructor.
What Resources do you offer?
We collaborate with local municipalities, we will guide you toward available resources
Do you need to speak Spanish to join?
No, Although clases are mostly conducted in Spanish to help children utilize their spanish language skills. English instructions are also provided.
Do you participate in Multicultural events?
Yes, please fill out a Contact Us form to Request a Performance by our Group.
our dedicated team
Viviana Salazar
Executive Director
Viviana Salazar is a first-generation Mexican American whose journey is a testament to perseverance, cultural pride, and community service. Viviana grew up in Jalisco, Mexico, she spent her early childhood immersed in the traditions and rhythms of her homeland. At the age of ten, she moved to Albert Lea, Minnesota, navigating the challenges of learning a new language and culture.As the daughter of Mexican immigrants who did not complete formal education, Viviana faced numerous obstacles but remained determined to break barriers. She became the first in her family to earn a Bachelor’s degree, all while working and raising a newborn as a single mother. She credits her success to the unwavering support of her family, employer, and coworkers, who provided encouragement during her academic journey. Viviana’s passion for advocacy and equitable access to healthcare began during her tenure at Open Door Health Center, where she worked to ensure low-income families received the care they needed. She dedicated herself to ensuring Spanish-speaking patients had language access, protecting children from the burden of acting as interpreters for their parents. As a supervisor at the University of Minnesota Physicians, Viviana co-led the Latine Employee Resource Group (ERG), fostering inclusivity and representation within the workplace. Her commitment to civic engagement continued as she became a commissioner on the Minneapolis Civil Rights Commission in 2024. During her tenure, the Latino community participated in a Youth Essay Contest, resulting in 24 Spanish-language essay submissions and a third-place win for a young Latino student, Victor, who received his award in the presence of the mayor and city council members.
Rosalinda Mendez
Dance Instructor
Rosalinda Mendez – Dance Instructor
Originally from Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Rosalinda Mendez has been passionate about dance since her high school days, where she met her husband, Carlos. Her love for Folklore Dance and traditional dances from Latin America has been a lifelong journey, shaping her dedication to preserving and sharing the vibrant rhythms and rich cultural heritage of Mexico.
Upon moving to Minnesota, Rosalinda was inspired to bring the joy of Folklórico to her new community. As a skilled choreographer and certified Zumba instructor, she blends tradition with energy, creating dynamic performances that celebrate Mexican culture. Her work with Nuestra Lucha MN allows her to inspire dancers of all ages, fostering a deep appreciation for the artistry and history of Folklórico dance.
Rosalinda’s passion and expertise continue to uplift and unite the community, ensuring that the beauty of Mexican folklore thrives in Minnesota.
Carlos Mendez
Music Director
Carlos Mendez – Music Director
Originally from Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Carlos Mendez is a dedicated pastor currently serving the community in Rogers, Minnesota. With a career deeply rooted in diversity and community engagement, he has been a strong advocate for cultural expression and inclusivity.
Carlos’s passion for teaching stems from his love of music and his enthusiasm for inspiring children to try new things, showcase their talents, and build confidence through performance. As the Music Director for Nuestra Lucha MN, he plays a vital role in curating and remixing the music used during practices and performances, ensuring that each presentation captures the energy and authenticity of Mexican folklore.
Through his leadership and creativity, Carlos helps bring the vibrant traditions of Folklórico to life, enriching the cultural fabric of the community and empowering the next generation of dancers.
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