By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Fort Hays State University will come alive with Latin traditions and flavors on Thursday as it celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month.
Hosted by FHSU Hispanic American Leadership Organization, the evening showcases Hispanic culture through food, dances and activities.
Group President Alexis Trejo said he hopes the celebration inspires people to try something new while connecting with the Hispanic community in Hays.
"My goal for this event is community outreach and let other families know that there are Hispanic events in Hays," he said.
Set for 5 to 7 p.m. in the northeast parking lot of Lewis Field Stadium, the student organization is collaborating with the FHSU Spanish Club, who will be dancing at the celebration.
The dance group will perform at 6 p.m. while attendees enjoy Latin flavors from food vendors like Taco Riend and Las Hefas.
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church will provide desserts, while La Luz del Mundo Church from Bazine will serve pupusas.
"We appreciate the family from Bazine making us pupusas because they do have to make a drive," the organization's Secretary and Treasurer Ivonne Trejo said.
The celebration will also offer other foods, including churros, cheesecake, buñuelos, agua frescas, chips and tacos.
The family-friendly event, which is open to the entire community, will feature yard games and arts and crafts.
Group Vice President Karina Vargas said the month honors various Latin countries and clarifies that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day.
"This month celebrates Independence Day for Hispanic countries like Mexico and those in Central America," she said.
National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 in the United States to recognize the contributions and impact of Hispanic Americans.
Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Belize, Mexico and Chile are the Latin American countries celebrating their independence during the month.
Vargas hopes to raise awareness of Hispanic heritage in Hays with similar events, especially given the town's small Hispanic population.
"It's the least we can do in a community where we are the minority," she said.
"It's important for us to have this celebration," Ivonne said. "There are Hispanics who may feel a disconnect, and having this celebration can help them connect to their heritage and family roots."
In addition to educating the community about Latin cultures, the organization also strives to advocate for immigrants.
Alexis said when he joined the group, he recognized its growth potential and chose to expand this year's event to include students and the Hays community.
"It's important to express your heritage to show people where you're from because you're parents or family members made sacrifices for you to get here," he said.
FHSU Save The Kids, a nonprofit, will hold a fundraising bake sale at the celebration to support future events.
Joanna Carrillo, the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Director of the FHSU Student Government Association, will have a table at the event to educate attendees about Hispanic heritage.
Ivonne said The Hispanic American Leader Organization welcomes any student eager to explore and engage with a different culture.
"We make it clear that this isn't just for Hispanics but for those who simply want to learn more about Hispanic heritage and our background," she said.
You can follow the FHSU Hispanic American Leadership Organization on Instagram.
Editors note: Tony Guerrero is a FHSU Hispanic American Leadership Organization member.