Caitlyn Ayala didn’t get to have a traditional Quinceañera when she was 15. So even though she’s now 21 years old, the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) gave her one in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
ALAS, partnering with Avanzando, organized this “Quinceañera Experience” event on Oct. 11 to share this important Hispanic tradition with the UMKC community.
A Quinceañera is a traditional ceremony that originated in Mexico and has spread across Latin America and the Caribbean. The ceremony marks a girl’s transition into womanhood on her 15th birthday.
“It’s her [Ayala’s] actual first Quinceañera, and we have the honor and the privilege to do it for her,” said Emmanuel Fabian, public relations officer of ALAS.
Quinceañeras are thought to date back as far as the 5th century and have Spanish influence. This focus on “transition” is similar to Aztec and Mayan beliefs.
During the “Quinceañera Experience,” Ayala showcased the customs of a Quinceañera ceremony for attendees.
The first of these customs was a waltz with her “quinceañera court”, typically a group of the Quinceañera’s closest friends and family. Ayala’s court was made up of ALAS officers and Avanzando mentors.
Other customs included the “changing of the shoes” (in which the Quinceañera’s shoes are switched from flats to high heels) and the “last doll” (in which the Quinceañera is gifted a doll and surrenders it to the youngest child in the audience). These customs are meant to symbolize the girl shifting towards adulthood.
Modern Quinceañera ceremonies are followed by a party celebrating the girl’s new status. ALAS closed the night with Mexican food from Mi Ranchito and a live performance by local/student band SouLuna.
“This event did a good job showcasing Hispanic culture and inviting people to experience and learn about it,” said freshman Luis Zuniga.
This sentiment was shared by other attendees, including freshman Jasmine Galeas. “ALAS and Avanzando build a sense of belonging for a diverse range of students and that’s something I really admire and enjoy about them,” said Galeas.
ALAS and Avanzando will continue hosting events that cultivate diversity across UMKC and educate those unfamiliar with Latin culture.
“One of our main goals is for every culture to be able to experience the traditions of Latin-American people,” said Arlin Carreon, vice president of ALAS.
