The Latino Student Alliance (LSA) recently had a big event to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month. 

On Saturday, Oct. 1, LSA hosted the masquerade ball, which was an upbeat and vibrant event to celebrate and include all Latino heritage. The event was free for students and had a bar serving drinks for those 21 and over. 

LSA had a table for snacks, salsa and refreshments. For many attending, it was their first masquerade. Many students expressed how half of the event was getting ready beforehand, with dresses, makeup, hair and more all requiring their attention. They chose to host the event on the Dominguez Hall terrace, allowing loud music to be played and lots of space for the dance floor. 

The party stretched from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. This LSA event was motivated by inclusion and getting all Latino backgrounds involved or interested in the club. On Sept. 30, the alliance held their last event of the month, making masks for the Masquerade Ball, ensuring that everyone who wanted one had a mask.

Students were enthused to bring their mask for the event and create a custom look for their time out, while others preferred to make their masks as they would have done for centuries in Latinx cultures. 

The coordinators of LSA were excited to see all those that came out to celebrate. They were motivated by the diversity they have in the club, and the opportunity to bringLatinx and non-Latinx heritages together. The event was a great opportunity to dance and meet new people. The masquerade ball was also a great inclusive environment for Spanish-speakers and those trying to learnSpanish. 

“The masquerade had a great turnout there, where a lot of people demanded and had a great time to kick off hispanic heritage month.” said social media manager for Black Student Alliance, Laporshia Freeney. 

For students interested, LSA meets bi-weekly on Thursdays,  and encourages all those that are interested to come to one of their meetings and check out one of the many events they host.