Mixing a combination of water and flour, she kneeds it until it becomes a “masa” (dough) and smoothly spreads it on maxan husks to make the traditional Guatemalan “tamales.”
In another part of the world, the vibrant colors and patterns flow freely across the stage as the Folklorico dancers sway their arms smoothly to the sounds of the Mariachi music.
Meanwhile, in the Puerto Rican islands, dancers break a sweat as they dance the night away to the salsa.
Whether it is music, food or celebrations, they are all traditions and although they are celebrated in different Latin American countries, they are all celebrated in the U.S. to celebrate as part of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the achievements of Hispanics throughout history.
It is also a time where Hispanic people take time to recognize their background and where their ancestors come from.
“I’m proud of my heritage for a lot of reasons. The culture is pretty amazing, the music, the traditions, even the way I look is something to be proud of,” Jaime Morales, 19, Architecture major said.
A few misconceptions about Hispanic Heritage Month is that only the Mexican culture celebrates this month and some may even associate it with Cinco de Mayo.
However, according to the U.S. Census, the term Hispanic is defined as “people who classified themselves in one of the specific Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino such as: Mexican, Mexican-American, Chicano, Puerto Rican or “Cuban.”
Students like Andrea Netro, 19, criminal justice major said being able to identify herself is important.
“I identify myself as a Latina,” Netro said. “My dad is from El Districto Federal and my mom is from San Luis Potosi. We have Mexican-style parties like quinceneras, posadas and fiestas.”
Other students take part in celebrating the independence of the country where their parents came from.
“Well, my family always celebrates El Grito de Dolores. I just love the vibrancy and color of my heritage,” Amber Lopez, 18, liberal studies major said about her Mexican heritage celebrations.
Magaly Herrera, 18, sociology major, said she is proud of where she comes from as every aspect of her heritage is a part in who she is.
“Yes, I’m very proud of my heritage, the food, the music, it’s all an important part of being El Salvadorian,” she said.
Baja Splash
Cultural Festival
Live music from Mariachi to interactive percussion, crafts, cuisine, art, and educational shows about the amazing animals of Baja will be featured at the event. There will be the celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month with its10th annual bilingual festival featuring cultural dance performances from ancient Aztec to folk dances from Mexico and beyond.
When: Sunday and Monday
Where: Long Beach Aquarium
Fiesta Mexicana IX
Fiesta Mexicana is a long tradition of honoring L.A.’s local musical heritage. Called variedad concert which means variety, the show features the Mariachi Monumental, Trio Casablanca and the voices of Roberto Romo, Cindy Luna and recording artist Belinda Gomez. Banda Futura will also be playing at the event. When: Sept. 24
Where: Ford Amphitheatre
For more information interested persons may call 323-461-3673.
Mapping Another LA:
The Chicano Art Movement
Beginning with the establishment of the first Chicano art gallery in 1969 in East L.A., Chicano artists launched a collective reimagining of the urban landscape through photography, graphic arts, murals and large-scale architectural plans, as well as through painting, sculpture, installation, and drawing.
When: Oct. 16
Where: UCLA Fowler Museum
Chanclaso
The Los Angeles City Employees Chicano Association will host its annual Chanclaso reception in recognition of the significant contributions and achievements for Hispanic Heritage Month.
Josefina Salinas, from 92.3 FM Radio, will be the Mistress of Ceremonies. When: Friday, Oct. 3
Where: City Hall Third Floor Rotunda and Forecourt, 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles
Cost: Free
Information: 213-847-2229 or [email protected]
