By Shriya Trilok, Contributing Writer
Gettysburg College celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with the Latinidad Festival on Oct. 1, which featured food, activities and music.
The event was sponsored by the Latin American Student Association, Spanish Department, Dominican Student Association, Butterfly Coalition and Latinx House.
One of the activities encouraged students to write letters to immigrants in the community to provide support and encouragement. There was also a painting station where students could paint Hispanic flags or flags representing their own backgrounds, in addition to a photo booth.
The festival also offered a wide selection of free food from a variety of cultures. Dishes included ensalada de papa (potato salad), pico de gallo, arroz blanco (white rice), moro de guandules (rice and pigeon peas), pollo (chicken) and cerdo (pork). Beverages included horchata, a spiced dairy-free drink and other options as well. Caribbean dishes were also served.
Erika Reyes Garcia, house leader of the Latinx House, stated her belief in the importance of the event.
“We wanted to bring it (the festival) to the center of campus, especially with everything that’s going on in the nation right now. It’s really important to celebrate and come together as a community.”
Cynthia Ortiz-Sanchez, a member of the Butterfly Coalition, stated that she found a sense of home through the event.
“As a Hispanic student myself, it’s amazing to be able to, come from home and come into an environment that is equally as homey as being at home,” Ortiz-Sanchez said.
