Rhythms of Heritage: Highland Park's Hispanic Heritage Festival

The aroma of spices like paprika, chile, lime and cilantro flew through the air as people walked into the Hispanic Heritage Festival on Sept. 21, hosted by La Paz in Highland Commons Park.  

Children ran around in excitement, meeting new people as a live band played along with the laughs of families and friends. 

There were various food trucks selling dishes like chicken and beef empanadas, savory birria tacos, sweet but tangy mangonadas, açai bowls, as well as Dominican and Puerto Rican food. The lines at the food trucks were wrapped around the side of the road, and vendors marketed hand-held fans and cold drinks to help the people attending beat the heat.  

Many vendors were community-based organizations attempting to inform the community how they can help themselves, and others. Others sold Hispanic-style jewelry and clothing, as well as many homemade products.

Rachell Almazan, a student part of the Hispanic community at UTC, shared her opinion about the festival.

“At the festival, I enjoyed all the food options they had, and I wished I had a chance to try all of it. I also enjoyed the traditional Mexican dance, Folklorico, because of all the colors on the costumes and the energy and work they put into it. It added authenticity to the festival’s representation of Hispanic heritage," Almazan said. "This festival strengthens the Hispanic community by bringing people from different countries but who share heritage.” 

Not many of those who attended were UTC students, but those who did were happy to talk about Hispanic heritage and what it means to them. Anthony Bracero, president of the Latin Fraternity at UTC, Lambda Theta Phi, shared how it felt being a part of the Hispanic heritage festivities.

“Attending the Hispanic Heritage Festival in Chattanooga was a surreal moment for me,” Bracero said. “While I have been to international festivals before, witnessing a festival dedicated to celebrating Hispanic heritage with its variety of vendors and stands representing different Hispanic cultures was truly inspiring. It highlighted the progress being made in Chattanooga.” 

Despite the 90-degree weather, attendees eagerly participated in the festivities, coming together to celebrate a common value. Many who attended the festival were with their children or were older people in the community.

“With the busyness of everyday life, it’s easy to get caught up in routine; however, when September 15th arrives, it serves as a meaningful reminder to pause, celebrate my heritage, and reflect on the accomplishments of Latinos in our community,” said Bracero.

The festival was also a significant moment for the Latin fraternity. Sept. 21 was the day of Lambda Theta Phi’s proclamation. The city recognized Lambda Theta Phi as the first Latin fraternity at UTC and for advocating for diversity to those looking for community. 

“We received a proclamation from the city declaring September 21st as Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. Day," Bracero said. "It was an honor that made me incredibly grateful; it’s not every day that someone who looks like me receives such recognition from the city. As president of my chapter, I wanted to establish a lasting community and brotherhood for future Latino students that attend UTC, and I believe we are making great progress in that direction.” 

Each year, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated at UTC in many ways. On Sept. 16, the Multicultural Center in Lupton held a Hispanic heritage event that urged students to come and taste Hispanic food, drinks, and sweets. Information boards detailing interesting facts about Latin history and Hispanic heritage decorated the multicultural center windows, enlightening passersby about important historical events. 

“For me, Hispanic heritage is a time to reflect on the contributions of Hispanic Americans who have shaped our country and society," Bracero said. "It provides an opportunity to honor their influence and celebrate the cultural legacy they’ve passed down. This heritage has greatly impacted my life, encouraging me to embrace my culture fully.”

For more information about Hispanic Heritage Month events at UTC, visit the Multicultural Center’s website.