Celebration highlights Hispanic Heritage

The yearly celebration La Fiesta de la Hispanidad, which has been occurring now for 15 years, was held Sept. 14, in Arlington. 

The celebration is organized and hosted by the congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The purpose of the event is the celebration of the members’ Latin roots. At the event, members came in traditional dress, traditional foods were serve, and there was dancing. 

Participants took pride in their culture and traditions. Those celebrating who attended are from many Latin countries, as well as by members from the United States. 

The event was a community effort, with people of all ages contributing to the planning, setup and celebration for the four-hour event.

“I give thanks to my Heavenly Father and President Baldie for giving me the space to share with you my experience at the grand Hispanic Night, which is a custom that the church celebrates,” Oscar Sevilla said. “What I liked most was the enthusiasm and joy in which each member prepared themselves to share as a family. President Baldie shined with the decoration. I had the opportunity to help her. She is detailed and I was happy to help her because I am one who likes to do things well. The piñata was the cherry on the cake.”

Many people worked together to decorate and prepare for the event. 

San Juana Rodriguez shared, “I liked a lot the ability to celebrate El Dia de la Hispanidad. To be able to help decorate tables. It felt very beautiful to be able to decorate alongside others from other countries. The food was very delicious. There were many plates from different countries. The dance following the food was very agreeable and to see the happy faces of the people made me feel very happy. Everything was beautiful. I loved being able to converse with others and to see them help with what was needed. It made my heart joyful to see their acts of love and service.”

The event brought people together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage. There were even recipes exchanged such as the pozole.

Miro Hernandez was at the celebration and said. “It is very enjoyable being able to experience the culture, food and traditions from other countries. Also, very beneficial to understand that there is another beautiful world out there. Once we understand that, our mentality of selfishness changes.”

The celebration was a resounding success, filled with joy and camaraderie. The enthusiasm of those attending  was contagious. The joyous occasion fostered a positive atmosphere and sense of community.