PHOTOS: Southwest Detroit's Cinco de Mayo parade celebrates the many faces that make up a community

From Friday to Sunday, the annual Cinco de Mayo festivities across Detroit celebrated the region's connections to the Mexican holiday. But behind the bright colors is a somber story. The celebration marks the Battle of Puebla, when Mexico fought off a French invasion on May 5, 1862.

This year, photographer  Rosa María Zamarrón was on hand to document the celebration of independence. From horses to horsepower, from young folk to folk dancing, the many facets of the diverse communities that connect with Mexican culture in Detroit were on display. Culminating in a popular parade, the Southwest Detroit fiesta this year also saw artisan vendors, food, and entertainment on show.