The Student Activities and Multicultural Student Affairs hosted Viva America! – A Latin American Showcase – Tuesday evening by the SMU flagpole. The showcase included native dancers, food and the national flags of each Latin American country that was represented. The purpose of the event was to invite students to “explore the rich cultures of Latin America.”
As people arrived, they were guided to the registration table for three tickets to the food tables and were entered into a drawing to win two tickets to a Pitbull concert. The food consisted of selections from restaurants around Dallas including El Ranchero, Dallas Tortillas, Gloria’s and La Cubanita. Near the registration table, a map of Latin America laid for attendees to sign their name to their native country. This was to show the students and other attendees present the diverse cultures represented at SMU.
To begin the program, Jacky Negrete, president of SAMSA, introduced Pat Kobler, student body president, who commented on the good food and great use of an opportunity. “This organization is definitely using their funding to their greatest ability.” Claudia Sandoval, Latin American Senator, was also brought to the stage to voice her support and throw out SMU Latin American t-shirts to the crowd.
The keynote speaker, Adolfo Ayuso, director of Cultural Affairs and the Mexican Consul in Dallas, was finally brought to the stage to speak briefly about the history and importance of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month was created in 1968 by President Johnson to begin Sept. 15 and last until Oct. 15 of each year. It was established to “celebrate the culture, traditions and accomplishments of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, South America and the Caribbean.”
Music, such as that played at the showcase, and folklore of Latin Americans has influenced the country greatly. Ayuso said besides music, Hispanics have contributed a great deal to America by serving in numerous wars, altering and participating in the music industry, sports, politics and almost every aspect of the typical American world. They have made advancements in science and aerospace with Franklin Diaz as the first Hispanic astronaut.
Ayuso then said, by estimating, that Hispanics make up about 16.1 percent of the youth population.
“Latinos continue to play a major role in many of the decisions the country makes as we look into the 21st century,” he said.
His speech was followed by the flag ceremony, in which each country’s flag was presented by a student from that country. This event brought together students across campus and from different countries to mingle together and enjoy food and experience diversity.
