To end Hispanic Heritage Month, Elon University’s El Centro hosted its eighth annual gala to support and empower students, faculty and staff who identify as Latinx/Hispanic. With laughter, music and cultural food, there was a community atmosphere in LaRose Student Commons throughout the night of Oct. 18.
Sophomore attendee Lidia Briones said events such as Gala Latina are important because it celebrates and unifies the community on campus.
“Having this community acknowledged and just giving them a voice and showing that they're just as great as everybody else,” Briones said. “People who are Hispanic and Latino sometimes can often feel underappreciated.”
Vice President for Inclusive Excellence Randy Williams said while these events are open to all, they are crucial for the campus’ Latinx and Hispanic communities to celebrate their heritage and feel a sense of belonging.
“This is a good time to just celebrate students, and it happens at the beginning of the school year too,” Williams said. “The event helps first-years in finding mentors in upper class students who can support them in their development.”
According to Williams, some attendees use it as a guide for their own experiences at Elon, keeping it as a memory and reminder that no matter what they have “mi gente” (my people) to support them.
As the evening began, awards were given to students for their academic accomplishments and involvement within the Elon community. Assistant Director of the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education MJ Larrazabal called the night a “celebration of you, of your successes,” encapsulating the spirit of the event.
A highlight of the evening was a performance by senior Cristy Marine, who sang about trials and triumphs. Her voice captivated and resonated with the crowd, with some attendees shouting in awe and pride.
The comforting atmosphere was enhanced by journalism professor Israel Balderas, who gave what he called a “dad speech.” Balderas encouraged students to “be world changers” and to “find what lights you up.”
As the night drew to a close, Director of the CREDE Sylvia Muñoz gave remarks thanking everyone who was a part of putting the night together and talking about the future of El Centro at Elon. Afterward, attendees transformed the front of the room into a dance floor filled with movement, laughter and joy as students connected through dance.