by Meredith Crouch |

LHS has always had a large number of clubs that help everyone find their place in the school. The Latin American Association recently had their first activity where they made authentic Mexican food and watched a movie in Spanish.

“I hope to gain more knowledge about my culture,” sophomore Rafael Hernandez said. “I honestly don’t know all there is about it.”

Many of the members interviewed admit this also, they do not know everything about where they come from. Students in the club who are not of Latin American heritage also want to learn more. Luckily, they have a club sponsor who is passionate about her culture and eager to teach members all about it.

“I love the traditions,” club sponsor Lisa Augustine said. “I love the family unity and the unconditional support.”

Like Augustine, most members love the family unity that comes with being a Latin American.

“I love the people, the music and the love that everyone gives to each other, no matter what the circumstances are,” senior John De La Torre said.

Most club members feel the same way.

“The traditions we have are different from any other culture. They are so much fun,” sophomore Melissa Balderas said.

Augustine hopes to share some of her knowledge about the customs and also help them to feel like they have a place in the school.

“This club is important because it will help to validate students and make them feel their culture is also of value. It will also help the individual students to understand themselves a little better,” Augustine said.

Members enjoy the family aspects of the culture, but another big favorite is the food. Latin American cuisine is full of bold flavors and spices.

For their first club activity, the club made authentic quesidillas and Spanish desserts. They watched the movie “Selena” in Spanish because several of the club members are fluent. Overall, members had a great time at the fiesta and learned a lot at the same time.

“It’s nice that you don’t have to be good friends with another Hispanic to be able to go up and talk to them,” junior Cindy Rizo said. “Everyone is always friendly and we all share a common bond.”

Not only does Augustine want to teach the students about where they come from, she wants to give them opportunities to make a difference in their school and community.

“Having this club will give students a sense of belonging,” Augustine said. “It will help them to have better roots within the school and help them to find out more about themselves.”

The Latin American Association is just getting started and is already well underway. They have yet to decide a set date and time for their meetings but they have begun the process of planning activities and getting to know each other. They are still accepting new members and anyone is welcome to join.