Salsa and Salsa tradition breaks cultural education standard
Since 2021, Utah State’s Honors Program, Latinx Cultural Center and Latin Dance Club have collaborated to execute the annual Salsa and Salsa event, which gives students an opportunity to make salsa for others and try to learn to dance the salsa.
Jennifer Cortez acted as the mastermind behind the event in 2021.
When the tradition started, Cortez didn’t realize the amount of impact and anticipation this event would eventually have. The first time the event was executed, students from each collaborating program left with more anticipation for the next year’s event.
“This year, Honors has continued the collaboration with the new LCC staff,” Cortez said. “That is why we have already started planning for next year.”
The event is a break from midterms, and it has given students an opportunity to share, learn and embrace Latin culture.
“Being of Mexican descent, I enjoy the opportunity to share my culture with others and create a celebratory atmosphere,” Cortez said. “I also enjoy working with other organizations both on and off campus, chatting with attendees, dancing and eating salsa.”
J.T. Miller, the current president of the Latin Dance Club, said in addition to giving students an opportunity to share their culture, others are able to be more exposed to a different culture in a very welcoming environment.
“This event is important because it helps expose people to a new culture and a new style of dance,” Miller said. “Since it’s a social event, they also have the opportunity to meet new people and make more friends.”
The collaboration of three prominent organizations on campus has created a united environment through this celebration. Through dancing and having fun, people have shared memorable moments together throughout the years.
“My favorite memory has been being able to learn more about Latin dance and expand my knowledge on the different styles,” Miller said. “The club has helped me improve, and I am really grateful for that.”
Latin dance expands beyond a form of entertainment. It is also a reflection of Latin American values, beliefs and customs. This event provides a win for both entertainment and education.
“My favorite part about the people who come to these events is their desire to learn more about Latin dance,” Miller said. “They really care about learning. They learn really quick and have a lot of fun with the dances. Everyone who comes is also easy to get along with, which helps because we do a lot of dances with partners and we swap partners often.”