Hispanic Heritage Assembly

Mira Costa’s Latino Scholars Union (LSU) hosted the annual Hispanic Heritage Month Assembly in the Mustang Mall on Tuesday.

LSU created a video for each teacher to show during homeroom period the day of the assembly. According to sophomore Theodora Tuitupou, the video was directed by senior LSU member Gabriella Fish. The video highlighted  the theme, “Latinos driving prosperity and power in America.” It showcased many different Latino leaders in America such as Sylvia Acevedo and Cristina Jimenez Moreta. Additionally, the video shared personal anecdotes from LSU members.

“The video was an idea we came up with to give everyone background information and context regarding Hispanic heritage,” said senior LSU member Hailey Fiallos. “We wanted to create something where people could easily learn about Hispanic culture and get them excited about the assembly.”

According to Tuitupou, a month prior to the assembly, LSU came together and discussed goals for the assembly: to raise funds for the club as well as raising awareness to the culture. Two weeks leading up to the assembly, LSU made posters/informational graphics, created a playlist and a menu for the assembly.

“[LSU] wanted to make sure we included many different cultures and showcased all the amazing things each one had to offer,” Fiallos said. “It took a lot of planning and teamwork, but I feel that we did a great job representing everyone.”

   In the Mustang Mall, LSU sold pupusas, tacos and jarritos. According to Fiallos, LSU wanted to sell foods specific to Hispanic culture and also wanted to have generally delicious food for everyone to enjoy. LSU members also worked informational booths. One booth showcased traditions, art and music that are specific to Central America. They also facilitated mini soccer games in the Mustang Mall

“[We] wanted people to understand that Latino is not strictly one culture, but a combination of many different ones,” sophomore Sofía Morales said. “LSU is a community of strength and somewhere I feel accepted in a school with fewer minorities.”