By Michela Gritti
On Wednesday, Sept. 24, the UC Annex filled with music, games and community as UNC Pembroke celebrated the Hispanic Heritage Fall Festival. The event, hosted by the World Languages Program, ran from noon to 2 p.m. and brought students, faculty and organizations together for an afternoon of cultural celebration.
The program included a mix of performances and activities. Students enjoyed Kahoot games, lotería and an open mic session with karaoke in Spanish. Performances featured poetry, theater by Acto Latino, songs by Marbely Carrillo Velazco and Julian Alvarado, and the traditional Argentine dance Chacarera.
Ana Cecilia Lara, professor and director of World Languages, said the festival carried an important message. “Celebrar el Mes de la Hispanidad da visibilidad a la riqueza cultural, histórica y lingüística de las comunidades hispanas. Incluso si la población estudiantil fuera pequeña, estos estudiantes ven reconocida su herencia y sus aportaciones, lo cual fortalece su sentido de pertenencia en el campus” (Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month brings visibility to the cultural, historical and linguistic richness of Hispanic communities. Even if the student population were small, these students see their heritage and contributions recognized, which strengthens their sense of belonging on campus).
Lara also noted that the celebration benefits the entire university. “The whole university gains from learning about Hispanic traditions, history, music and literature. It broadens perspectives, combats stereotypes and reminds us that diversity is an essential educational value.”
The Hispanic Heritage Fall Festival offered more than just music and games. It highlighted culture, identity and connection on campus. Between the performances and spontaneous moments of fun, it created a space where students could both celebrate their roots and share their culture with the broader UNCP community.