Students attend Festival Latino de Lexington
0Written by Danielle Upton
Students from UPIKE Spanish classes and international students attended the Festival Latino de Lexington on Friday, Sept. 16 at the Robert Stevens Plaza. “Ten students attended the trip and three professors: Ella Smith-Justice, assistant professor of Spanish; Karen Dillinger, professor of Spanish; and Diann Whittier, director of office of international students and scholars,” said Smith-Justice. “The trip was funded by Experiential Learning.” The festival is held in September to celebrate Latino Heritage Month. It is presented by Lexington Parks and Recreation and Foundation for Latin American and Latino Culture and Arts. The Festival included: musical and dance performances, food vendors, souvenirs, and a parade. The Parade of Nations included representatives from every Latin American country carrying their country’s flag and wearing the traditional costume. “This is great for students to have cultural exposure and getting to see the pride people have for their country. To be in the United States and have pride for the United States, but also pride for their home country,” said Smith-Justice. “We hope to go each year. We would like to make it an annual thing if possible. I hope it grows each year.”