The Latinx Student Union marked its second annual Hispanic Heritage Month Breakfast on Thursday, Oct. 9 in the Crossman Dining Hall, bringing together students, parents and teachers for a morning of food, culture, and connection.
For junior Valentina Rojas, LSU president, the role of organizing the event is exciting yet challenging.
“Keeping up with all of the communication tasks and getting the message across to every division […] has been kind of hard,” Rojas said. “My favorite part has been seeing how excited the parents get when they see their kids embracing their culture.”
Last year, the breakfast menu was simple, mostly tacos, with one parent bringing traditional hot chocolate. This year, the event will expand its culinary reach, offering a wider variety of dishes from across Latin America.
Former LSU president, senior Hazel Goes-Young says she is eager to see the menu grow beyond its original offerings.
“I personally think Hispanic food is delicious, so I’m excited to try all the different types,” Goes-Young said.
Furthermore, the cafeteria will be decorated with Papel picado and colorful banners to represent different Latin American cultures.
Faculty members hope that the event will remind students of the importance of identity and belonging.
“It’s always about community and sharing, sharing our stories and sharing time with one another,” the adult advisor of LSU and Upper School Spanish teacher Stephanie Almanza said. “This is a way for people across divisions to come together.”
With food, music, and traditions all across Latin America, the breakfast aims to unite the community while celebrating its diversity.
“I think it’s important to celebrate our culture,” Debate teacher Rodrigo Paramo said. “It’s a reminder that the faculty and the rest of the community are here for those students [who identify with this culture].”