Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 in the United States to recognize the thousands of inhabitants that have Spanish speaking blood. Many students at Aliso Niguel High School have originated from Hispanic countries, yet there are only a few celebrations to acknowledge their culture at school.
Hispanic countries include most places in Latin America and Spain. At ANHS, there are a significant number of students that have hispanic ties or have even lived in a spanish speaking country.
In Mrs. Macdonald’s Spanish Speakers class, she promotes cultural identity by allowing students to bring a type of food from their background. Additionally, she teaches her students important aspects of many Latin countries during the month celebration.
Mrs. Macdonald says, “Celebrating different cultures promotes inclusivity, respect and understanding among the students. I think any type of cultural celebration would allow students to explore and appreciate the school’s diversity.”
Knowledge amongst students, especially ones with diverse ethnicities, is necessary in order to create a safe and welcoming environment. If students are not educated or informed about their classmate’s cultural background, they can easily disrespect or judge someone based on their differences.
Besides a few classes that bring awareness to Hispanic Heritage Month, the school does not do anything to remind students of this month. There should be more activities or events held to recognize people’s culture.
One way in which the school can help spread awareness is by announcing special reminders of the announcements in the mornings. They can mention a small fact or idea about Hispanic Heritage throughout the month in order for more students to learn something new everyday.
The school can also have a food fair where Hispanic students can share their food and recipes with the rest of the school. Latin America has a rich culture that is very diverse in its gastronomy throughout Latin America and Spain.
A Hispanic student at ANHS, Franco Bermejo (11), shares, “Hispanic Heritage Month helped me to feel more proud of my roots, connect with the Hispanic community diversity and appreciate how our cultures help to improve other communities.”
Transfer students from Spanish speaking countries have to endure a difficult change to their environment and lifestyle. For many students, this can cause significant stress or sadness as they are separated from their homeland. However, the school can make them feel recognized through simple events or information gatherings.
I believe that having cultural events and commemorations are important no matter the circumstance as it brings awareness to the people around you. This is essential in one’s education, but it also manages to help others who have moved from different countries accommodate themselves in a different place.
Hispanic Heritage Month makes Hispanics feel seen or respected amongst their community which they are acknowledged in. This applies to other ethnic groups as well; therefore, it is important in many aspects to be mindful about one’s ancestral heritage.
Hispanics can be characterized through their beautiful roots which reflects in their identity. Students and every other Hispanic should feel the freedom and gratitude to share their heritage through their traditions, language and practices.
