Hispanic Heritage Month Sparks Cultural Celebration

By Lynette L. Martina

The Hispanic Student Association kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 17 at Seminole State College, and the celebration culminated Oct. 11 with the Hispanic Heritage Celebration.

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the culture and contributions that Hispanic men and women have made in American history.

Hispanic Heritage Month consists of four weeks, each its own theme starting with Music week followed by Independence week, Art week and Hispanic Heritage Celebration week.

“What we do during Hispanic Heritage Month is that we celebrate our culture,” said Thaliana Perez Viera, association president. She added that they celebrate “contributions that we brought to this country and to other places as well: you know music, poetry and all the art.”

Music and Independence week activities have concluded. They included Zumba, cultural food, and Flamenco dancers on the patio in front of the Student Center in September.

Independence week focused on the Central American nations of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Those countries once formed the Federal Republic of Central America and gained independence from Spain Sept. 15, 1821.

Last week featured Art. There was a poetry contest Oct. 4. The Art Club displayed works of art as well.

This week the Hispanic Heritage Celebration was held Thursday, Oct. 11 in front of the Student Center. The event recognized and celebrated not only the five countries that gained independence, but all Hispanic countries.

People from various Hispanic countries had a table set up for students to go and learn about each nation.

All students were welcome to attend the activities whether they are of Hispanic descent or not. Perez Viera said some students may not know a lot about Hispanic heritage, but that’s OK.

“I’d be more than happy to educate them and let them know about each country,” she said. “If you just come up to us and want to learn, if you have a desire to know more about Hispanic countries, then that’s enough for you to come.”