By Susana Restrepo
The Latin American Association held their 22 Bites Around the World event in Bissinger at 7 p.m. this past Friday. The room was decorated with flags of all the Latin American countries. LAA volunteers presented food from the 22 different Latin American countries, such as pan de bonos, empanadas (both Cuban and Colombian), sandwiches de miga (popular in Argentina), fried fish, plantains, flan, and much more.
The Latin American Association also hired salsa dancers to dance while people were eating. When everyone was finished eating, the salsa dancers also gave dancing classes in the back. Popular Latin American hits played throughout the night. People who were not in the back being taught how to dance showed off their sick moves. There was also a photo booth for people to take pictures with their friends. Ponchos, big sunglasses, coconut bikini tops, and signs were offered as accessories for the photos.
“We are trying to showcase the diversity in Latin American countries,” LAA president Daniela Cardona said in her speech before she introduced the salsa dancers. “We’re trying to steer away from the image of pan de bonos and burritos.”
Suzett Lee, member of LAA said, “[We are] very excited to be as active as we were this year on campus. We plan on going bigger and better.”
“This was a really fun event. It really captured the diversity in South America. They should have this event again,” added member Diana Leon.
LAA’s last event of the semester will be during the Ethnic Student Council’s Unity Showcase, where they will be performing on Friday, April 17.
