Columbia College students, families and community members celebrated Latino/Latino culture on October 15 at the first campus La Fiesta: Celebration of Comunidad.
The afternoon event, held outdoors at Carkeet Park, welcomed hundreds of attendees who enjoyed music and dance by guest performers from Ballet Folklorico de UC Merced, Ballet Folklorico Anahuac and Salsa Merced.
Columbia College students also presented a Folklorico dance performance.
Food dishes from several Latin American countries were served by college staff and students. College students, faculty and community agencies provided family activities and information booths.
“This is an opportunity to provide a space to learn about and appreciate Latino culture and traditions for our communities,” said event organizer Vanessa Muro-Marai, counselor-coordinator for the college’s Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) and liaison to Dream. Resource Center (DRC).
“My hope is that our Latino/Latino students, staff and community feel a sense of belonging and welcome at our college. One of my favorite parts of the event was when so many people from all backgrounds gathered on the main stage to salsa dance and party together before ending the event.”
Sponsors for the event were the Columbia College Expanded Opportunity Programs and Services, the Columbia College Dream Resource Center, and the Columbia College Foundation.
The college plans to bring the event back next year and continue a tradition of cultural awareness and appreciation.
Anyone interested in participating next year can contact the college’s EOPS Department at [email protected] or (209) 588-5130.
