Diez y Seis brings fiesta spirit to campus

From Dies y Seis de Septiembre 2008

Inviting blue skies set the perfect backdrop for the Diez y Seis celebration at Austin Community College on Tuesday, September 16, honoring Mexican Independence Day.

Students, faculty, staff, and other attendees waited in a staggering line spanning the Riverside Campus’ central parking lot to indulge in tasty Mexican eats tacos and nachos. Piñatas adorned nearby tables, adding that final touch to the event’s festive atmosphere.

“These kinds of events are important for a lot of Hispanics at ACC,” said Samuel Gutierrez, an ACC student. “I’m thankful to be in a place that actually helps me learn and embrace my heritage.”

As promised, the celebration delivered a tremendous line-up of entertainment with speeches, music, and dance.

ACC Board of Trustees Vice-Chair Veronica Rivera took center stage and lauded the holiday’s history and the importance of celebrating it, signing off with “viva Mexico!”

Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklórico de Texas flaunted vibrant colors and ruffles as they danced, followed by the musical styling of Johnny Degollado y Su Conjunto.

ACC’s own Spanish rock band, Boca Abajo, jammed away on electric guitars to close out the ceremony. They were joined at one point by a tambourine-shaking enthusiast. 

Other notable speakers included Nan McRaven, ACC Board of Trustees chair, and City Councilman Mike Martinez, who got his start in the ACC Fire Academy.

“The college has done an excellent job with orchestrating this event,” said Gonzalo Barrientos, former Texas senator who brought the Diez y Seis celebration to ACC last year, and was emcee of this year’s event. “I’m so proud to be a part of it.”

Diez y Seis activities were co-sponsored by the Latin/Latino American Cultural Center,  the Center for Public Policy and Political Studies, and the Office of Student Success.

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