In 1968, the United States established Hispanic Heritage Week to celebrate the contributions and culture of Hispanic Americans. Later, in 1988, President Reagan’s administration expanded it to a month-long celebration that started on September 15 and ended on October 15. This significant period aligns with the Independence Day anniversaries of several Latin American countries. At Apopka High, the Spanish National Honor Society (SNHS) and Spanish Club organized a week-long celebration of Hispanic Heritage. It was an excellent opportunity to learn, acknowledge, and appreciate Hispanic culture’s rich history and diversity.
Decorated halls representing each Latin American country kicked off Hispanic Heritage Week, featuring informative events and shows. Ms. Carmen Benítez Gotay, a sponsor for SNHS, expressed her hopes for many students to “feel proud of who they are, their heritage and culture.” The Spanish National Honor Society accomplished this, with the first event being a tour of the Hispanic World exhibition. This exhibition provided insights into different countries and cultures and allowed students to interact with them through the presenters’ cultural clothing. They held various events, including a Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera cosplay competition and a Zumba night on Tuesday, allowing students to showcase their creativity and dance skills. Additionally, the fashion/talent show on Wednesday, a traditional dress and clothing competition, was held on Friday, further showcasing each respective country’s culture in a fun and engaging way. In addition to all the events, they played Spanish music between classes, making many students feel heard and welcome in a language they are comfortable with.
With numerous events and students, it takes an effort to plan. Ms. Carmen Benítez Gotay shared two main challenges: “creating new ideas and events every year to engage all students and staff” and getting “support from all teachers and students in our school.” Luckily, with the support of people like Mr. Heinz and several teachers and students, the turnout for each event was significant. Many Spanish classes could experience circumstances such as the Hispanic World exhibition.
The Apopka High School community has a significant Hispanic population that is highly supportive. It’s no wonder they’re already preparing for next year. Ms. Carmen Benítez Gotay intends to introduce “more fun activities” annually. Emelee Newball, a senior and public relations officer for SNHS, hopes to organize a “flag day” where students can proudly display their countries’ flags, regardless of whether they’re Hispanic or not, to engage the student body more. These concepts are thrilling news, especially given the fantastic presentations held in the past and the impact they had.
One of the most important goals when celebrating Hispanic Heritage Week is “creating awareness about how important it is to respect others, their heritage, and culture,” according to Ms. Carmen Benítez Gotay. Emelee Newball would agree, adding how she hopes people will “become more aware of the Hispanic and Latino Community…and how beautiful and united [it is].” Recognizing Hispanics in Apopka High is vital because, according to the National Education Center of Statistics, in 2022, Apopka High Hispanics made up 1,248 out of the 3,523 students enrolled at the time. Knowing this is important, as it helps realize how large and prominent the community is and how they should be seen and feel safe expressing their culture. Emelee Newball hopes that by doing this, “people will be kinder to others no matter their background or language.” Thanks to the efforts of the Spanish National Honor Society, Spanish Clubs, and teachers, this is now more possible than ever through their hard work and dedication to provide Apopka High with Hispanic Heritage Week.