The student organization of Latinos/Spanish Club, the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity and SEMO Alumni Affairs celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month on Sunday, Sept. 16, by hosting Tacos at Twilight.
The second annual event was held at Capaha Park, where attendees braved the heat to grab tacos and refreshments and enjoy the festivities.
“Basically it’s a time where the U.S recognizes the Hispanic culture that’s been added into our already versatile culture in the United States,” Said Myriah Bernard, the president of the Student Organization of Latinos. “It appreciates what they value, what we’ve given to them and it just takes some time to celebrate different culture and highlight the contributions they made to society.”
During the first hour, over 150 people showed up, Bernard said. Southeast president Carlos Vargas was among those in attendance.
Bernard said the goal this year was to grow the event, and in order to achieve the goal, they provided more food and entertainment.
“[Tacos are] not necessarily true Hispanic-cultural food, but when it comes to hosting a community that’s highly Americanized, it’s the one that works with everyone. Everyone loves tacos,” Bernard said. “We got the most realistic tacos you could have. You can find that in Mexico.”
Kids collecting candy after cracking a pińata open.Photos by Firas Aouinet
While trying to meet the crowd’s demands, she said they tried to give a little taste of Spanish culture.
The event showcased Latino culture with several performances ranging from dancing to singing, which included Southeast academic advisor José Mińo Lara playing the guitar as he sang along in his native tongue.
Pińatas were provided for children.
“I like how every person from Latin America here expresses their culture and beliefs, and I think in order to experience a new culture you’ve to witness it with your own eyes,” Southeast Student Brandon Gassei said. “you can’t just watch it on television.”
