Denver Chefs Unite for ‘Cookout con los Compas’ to Support Immigrant Rights

Four of Denver’s most celebrated Mexican-American chefs are hosting a community barbecue, “Cookout con los Compas,” this Sunday to raise funds for the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition. The event is a direct response to the impact of Operation Metro Surge, a federal deportation initiative targeting undocumented immigrants.

Responding to Community Concerns

Chefs Manny Barella, Erasmo Casiano, Johnny Curiel, and Michael Diaz de Leon organized the cookout after receiving criticism on social media for not publicly expressing solidarity when over 20 Denver-area restaurants and coffee shops participated in a nationwide general strike in late January protesting Operation Metro Surge [1]. Barella explained they wanted to demonstrate their support in a way that felt authentic to them [2].

“We should use our spotlight,” Barella stated, “but it’s going to be our way, the way that we feel comfortable and the way that we feel is going to craft the biggest impact.” [1]

Event Details

The “Cookout con los Compas” will take place in the parking lot of Johnny Curiel’s commissary at 2258 California St., which services his restaurants including Alma Fonda Fina, Mezcaleria Alma, Alteño and Mar Bella Boqueria [2]. The chefs will be cooking from 11 a.m. To 7 p.m. Sunday, accepting donations for the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, a nonprofit organization [1].

Attendees can expect brisket tacos and grilled chicken from Manny Barella’s Riot BBQ, carnitas and carne asada from Erasmo Casiano of Xiquita Restaurante y Bar, and offerings from Michael Diaz de Leon, co-owner of Molino Chido inside Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace [1]. A salsa bar, beverages, and raffle prizes to the chefs’ restaurants will also be available [2].

Operation Metro Surge and Community Response

The impetus for the cookout stemmed from the escalating impact of Operation Metro Surge, a federal deportation initiative targeting undocumented immigrants [1]. The operation has sparked protests and political backlash, including the nationwide general strike in January [2].

The “Cookout con los Compas” exemplifies a growing trend of community-led initiatives aimed at supporting immigrant communities facing increased scrutiny and enforcement [1].