Tim Danger Ramos
Photo Editor
Students, faculty and staff can slip on their dancing shoes and learn about Latin culture during a salsa lesson 4 p.m. Oct. 5 in the Ceremony Room of Patriots’ Casa at Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
The university is hosting “Salsa Magic” as part of LatinX Heritage Month.
Salsa dancing has been a way for those in the LatinX community to express their identity, culture, and feelings in a visual manner, said Esther Garza, chair of the Department of Educators and Leadership Preparation and co-chair of the LatinX Heritage Month Committee.
She encouraged attendees to enjoy themselves as they practice salsa dancing.
“Believe it or not, part of this educational experience is to have a little fun,” Garza said. “We try to work that … into our heritage month.”
The event will be free and there is no skill level requirement. Garza encouraged participants to dress comfortably but avoid wearing anything that may interfere with foot movement to avoid potential injury.
Jahi Blount, event coordinator for the Campus Activities Board, said there will be free Colombian empanadas — either chicken or beef with potato — as well as cheese arepas for a vegetarian option. Colombiana, a type of Colombian soda, and apple flavored Postobon will be offered as beverages.
Two dance instructors from Salsa On2 School will teach attendees the basics of salsa dancing.
Garza said participants who think they have “two left feet” should still give it a shot, and that they might just surprise themselves and discover a new hobby from this learning experience.
Garza said, as a daughter of immigrants and a first-generation college student, she often hesitated to go to her school’s social events.
“But what I learned is that if I kept myself from enjoying things that I didn’t realize I could enjoy, I wouldn’t have done so many things to where I am today,” Garza said. “And so, I believe, just take that risk, have a good time.”
Blount agreed.
“I would say this event will be a great time to destress, learn about Latin culture, Colombian culture in particular and you’ll be able to dance and let loose,” Blount wrote in an email to The Mesquite. “It’ll be a great time and we look forward to seeing everyone there.”
LatinX Heritage Month runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. Go here for more information on further events.
For more information about “Salsa Magic,” go here or contact Jarrick Brown, assistant director of Student Involvement, at jbrown@tamusa.edu or 210-784-1424.
