On Sept. 15, students and faculty walking past the Oreo were treated to booming music, vigorous volleyball and sweet cups of passion fruit juice courtesy of LASO (Latin American Student Organization). LASO’s latest edition in its annual “On My Block Party” event serves as a rich campus-wide celebration of Latin American cultures during National Hispanic Heritage Month.
First established in 2018, the “On My Block Party” has featured Latin
American-style catering, music and performances that give all students a taste of the combined cultures. The first block party attracted more than 300 attendees in its first year, including University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., Ph.D.. It has only grown since then as new
generations of student leaders with Hispanic heritage step-up, such as Villanova sophomore Rosalia Machado.
“It was amazing to see such a great turnout of students, and it made us happy that many of them brought their friends,” Machado said.
Hundreds of students gathered this year for the event.
“We emphasize that our events are open for everyone regardless of background to learn about our culture,” Machado said.
The opportunity for inclusive get-togethers like this represent the spirit of Villanova. If Wildcats of different backgrounds were not participating in the volleyball tournament, they were likely making chit-chat over the cinnamon taste of their horchata drinks.
Teams of all years vied vigorously for volleyball victory in the cool autumn weather, and the food consisted of delectable Mexican rice, chicken, pork and roasted vegetables. According to Machado, catering was provided by two different restaurants: Colombian and Salvadorian. LASO tries to order from different restaurants each year to incorporate greater diversity and inclusivity in its events.
The most lively part was the local performances around 7 p.m. The dynamic pop dances by the Villanova Superlatives and Lamba Theta Alpha’s traditional saluting performance had cheers roaring as students watched their friends take the spotlight.
To make it even grander, LASO reached out to a Villanova alumnus at the University of Delaware. She brought over members of Lamba Sigma Upsilon to hit the Oreo stage. They wowed audience members with their mighty stomps, swift jumps and stylish synchronization.
“We reached out to the three groups of performers because they are all such talented individuals, so we wanted to share our moment with them,” Machado said about LASO’s motivation for bringing them.
Perhaps the most interesting part was the multiple Hispanic/Latin American flags LASO set up around the Oreo and on a table next to Dougherty Hall.
“The flags are a reminder to always represent your roots, which is especially important at a PW, because we should be proud of where we came from,” Machado said.
When asked about their meaning, Machado said how they symbolize that there is no one way of being Hispanic. In her opinion, they show the many countries that bring different cultural aspects together in a setting that reminds people to cherish familial traditions.
“We hope that more people can feel welcome to attend our general body meetings, so that they can learn more about our culture and be a part of a family of students who wish to share that culture with them,” Machado said.
Students interested in LASO can learn more and become involved with the group by attending general body meetings and following it on Instagram, @lasovillanova. Villanova is set to host more events to celebrate Hispanic and Latin American heritage through the middle of October. More information about upcoming events can be found under the Student Life tab on the University website.
