Hispanic communities celebrate

Central and South American communities gathered at Rideau Park on Saturday afternoon to celebrate their countries’ independence and share their cultures with the wider Brandon community.

Hosted by the Hispanic Association of Manitoba Inc. (HAMI), the celebration featured traditional music, dancing, food and activities for families and children.

The annual event celebrates the independence of several Central American countries, including Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica, as well as Mexico, president Nestor Navidad said.

“It’s the celebration of independence of all the Central American countries,” Navidad told the Sun.

“The countries being celebrated gained independence from Spanish rule more than 200 years ago after more than three centuries under Spanish control.”

Throughout the afternoon, performers presented traditional songs and dances representing different countries.

One performance featured a traditional song from El Salvador, with dancers dressed in blue. Another group performed a Costa Rican dance while wearing red, while children also took part in performances representing Mexico.

Navidad said the event was planned to include musicians and performers throughout the afternoon, followed by family activities later in the day, including piñatas, cake and games for children.

HAMI expected about 50 to 60 people to attend, although attendance was slower than anticipated early in the afternoon.

“We still have some time, and we hope that as the day goes by, more people start coming,” Navidad said.

For Katherine Pastor, who represented Honduras at the celebration, the event is about more than entertainment.

Pastor, who has lived in Brandon for about 15 years, has been involved in the independence celebration for the past four or five years.

“My culture is a big part of who I am, it’s my identity,” she said. “I feel very honoured that I am able to represent it, and be able to tell others of where I come from and our culture, and be able to share that part of myself with others.”

Pastor’s parents, relatives and friends from Honduras also attended the event, while children participated in the cultural performances.

She said involving younger generations is important to ensure they maintain a connection to their heritage.

“It’s always good for them to know where they come from and always remember that part of them as well,” Pastor said.

As a dancer herself, Pastor said she understands the work that goes into preparing the performances, making the annual celebration especially meaningful.

“It’s always very exciting to prepare for them,” she said. “It’s always great to be able to show that.”

For HAMI, Navidad said the event provides an opportunity for Central and South American communities to celebrate their heritage together while inviting others in Brandon to learn about their traditions.

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