Columbia Gears Up for Vibrant Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage in Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as the community gears up to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize and honor the rich history and culture of the Hispanic community. This national celebration takes place from September 15 to October 15 each year, marking the independence days of several Latin American countries. In Columbia, where 5.94% of the population identifies as Hispanic, the festivities are about to kick off with a series of vibrant events designed to showcase this diverse culture.

The Main Street Latin Festival

One of the highlights of the pre-heritage month festivities is the Main Street Latin Festival. This annual gathering draws crowds to Downtown Columbia, where locals and visitors alike join in the fun. The festival is a beautiful blend of food, music, dance, and art, allowing everyone to experience the vibrant Hispanic culture in one burst of energy! It’s like a warm hug from the community that’s full of life, laughter, and learning.

A Theme for the Year

Each year, Hispanic Heritage Month comes with its own theme. For 2022, the focus is on “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” While national figures often come to mind, the heroes within our local Hispanic community are equally inspiring. They are educators, chefs, artists, and activists who contribute daily to the rich tapestry of Columbia’s cultural landscape.

Inspiring Educators

Among these pioneers is Mercedes Lopez Rodriguez, an Assistant Professor specializing in Colonial Spanish American literature at the University of South Carolina. Originally from Colombia, she moved to the U.S. over a decade ago and is hugely passionate about sharing her culture with her students. Her ongoing research project, titled “Feeling the Other: Hearing, Smelling, Tasting, and Touching Emotions in Colombia 1850-1970,” showcases her dedication to cultural exchange and understanding.

Her colleague, Andres Felipe Arroyave, son of Colombian immigrants, also teaches Spanish at the university. He shared his excitement about the richness that Southern-born Hispanics bring to the community. Together, they represent the blending of cultures and the storytelling tradition that enriches American life.

Education and Culture in Schools

Education plays a pivotal role in embracing and sharing Hispanic heritage. At Caughman Elementary, teacher Lina Zapata introduces her students to traditional street games from Latin America, helping to bridge the gap between cultures. Meanwhile, in Richland County School District Two, events like the “Parade of Nations” illustrate the vibrancy of Hispanic cultures through flags, music, and, of course, delicious food!

A Taste of Tradition

Speaking of food, one of the best ways to connect with different cultures is through their cuisine. A Fuego 787, a delightful Puerto Rican restaurant, brings a taste of the island to Columbia. Jessica Pagan, who spent much of her life in Puerto Rico, combines her love of cooking with her role as a Richland County deputy, ensuring that the flavor of her culture is felt all around.

Handmade and Heartfelt

The Hispanic community is also rich in arts and crafts. Luz Moody, a Mexico City native and owner of Luzma Mexican Apparel, crafts beautiful handmade pieces that reflect her heritage. Her mission is to share the cultural richness of Mexico through her unique designs presented at various pop-up shops.

Dance and Music Unite

Finally, music and dancing are like the heartbeat of the Hispanic community. Local dance group Culturas Sin Fronteras Universal, led by Jessica Torres, performs traditional Mexican folkloric dances throughout the Midlands, bringing people together through the joy of movement and rhythm. The energy is infectious, and the participation from audiences makes these performances all the more vibrant!

Finding Common Ground

While diverse in their customs and traditions, the Hispanic community shares a sense of pride in their identity. In Columbia, the Hispanic population invites everyone to learn, share, and celebrate their rich culture not just during Hispanic Heritage Month but every single day. The beauty of Columbia’s Hispanic community lies in its openness and willingness to embrace all cultures, making it a beautiful tapestry of shared experiences.

So, whether you’re trying a new dish, enjoying a folkloric dance, or learning a Spanish phrase, there are endless ways to engage with and celebrate the Hispanic community in Columbia!