Saturday night, Kirkhof Center came alive during the Latino Student Union’s baile: a chance to gather, dance, socialize and celebrate Latinx heritage. The event’s theme was Havana Night, an ode to Cuban culture. Dressing for the occasion, attendees matched the theme with ruffled dresses and button-down shirts.
Latino Student Union hosted an event every day leading up to Havana Night, including dance lessons in anticipation of a large turnout of attendees. Creating a safe space for students to learn and connect through shared experiences, Havana Night offered attendees the opportunity to experience Latinx culture, regardless of their own cultural background. For some, it was a chance to experience Latin music and cuisine for the first time. For others, it was an opportunity to support friends or celebrate their own culture.
Catering brought the theme to life, which included tables lined with food from Tacos El Cuñado. Funded by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, students enjoyed a spread of tacos, rice, beans and agua fresca. The sweet, fruity drinks and comforting smell of freshly cooked cuisine filled the room, inviting everyone to grab a plate.
“Every semester we do a baile representing different parts of our culture,” said David Arellano, president of Latino Student Union. “This (semester), we have all our decorations based on Havana, a popular city in Cuba, with our food and music themed around it.”
Arellano further highlighted diversity within the Latinx community.
“We at Latino Student Union are here not only to give a home to Latino students at GVSU, but educate people about our culture,” Arellano said.
Students excitedly packed into the Pere Marquette Room, letting the music alleviate stress. With Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids plaguing the U.S., many Latinx students have felt anxious, as their community is directly impacted.
“It’s been a hard time for the Latino community with the political climate,” said Arianna Westbrooks, outreach coordinator of Latino Student Union. “Our community is kind of on edge, so I think this is a nice way for us to let loose for a little bit, have fun while we can, be a community and get through it together.”
Despite the challenges faced by the Latinx community, students were able to feel a sense of unity during the event. They danced and celebrated in the face of adversity, displaying the resilient and enduring spirit of their culture. Through delicious foods and lively dancing, the event reminded attendees of the beauty and strength of Latinx culture. In a country where many face discrimination, events like Havana Night provide a safe space that fosters joy, connection and belonging. Latino Student Union is eager to begin planning next semester’s baile, with a fresh theme to continue their tradition.
