Hispanic Heritage Night filled the halls of GLIDE with the sound of conch shells and poetry on Thursday, September 18th. Activist Olga Talamente welcomed the audience into, “a space for indigenous wisdom to be passed down to future generations.”
Then we were treated to a performance by Danza Xitlalli, performing the dance of the Mexica Nahuatl dressed in full regalia. Shells and feathers swung through the air as they performed dances in honor of earth, fire, healing powers of plants/life, and the four cardinal directions. Each was powerful.
After being reminded of ancient wisdom, the evening then turned towards present events. Two Latino preeminent poets (Yosimar Reyes and Leticia Hernandez) came up to perform and be part of a panel talking about their experiences. One the most powerful quotes of the night was from Yosimar, speaking on how taking care of his dying grandmother affected him: “I don’t have control over the policies that affect my community, but I can control how I take care of my loved ones.”
We also can use our creativity to oppose the injustice we see and imagine a better world. “The signs of fascism are here, and we can stop it with our art,” was a word of both warning and hope that resonated deeply with the audience.
Hispanic Heritage Night is vital for reminding us about the importance of immigrants as their rights and existence are being attacked in our government and society. They’re integral parts of our society, coming for the American Dream and lifting us up with their hope and belief in our country. As our speakers reminded us: “Solidarity, not charity. Now and forever!”
