Hispanic Heritage Month celebration raises awareness, understanding of Spanish culture
MADISON — Hispanic Heritage Month went out with a bang last month with a community celebration at the Madison Public Library hosted by Rosie’s International Services.
Though the organization has hosted several events over the years in Huntsville, last month’s family-friendly festival was the first event held in Madison. Rosie Douglas, Founder and CEO of Rosie’s International Services, said the purpose of the celebration was to help raise awareness and understanding of the Spanish culture in the community.
“Personally, I have a love for people and culture, bringing people of all races together and sharing the culture,” Douglas said.
The event showcased this culture through a wide array of activities and presentations including arts, salsa dancing, special displays, Spanish food, Zumba, Spanish music, children’s activities and more.
Many displays were set up at the event to showcase different aspects of Spanish culture and achievement. CONTRIBUTED
Several members of the local and regional community helped make the event the success that it was. Elizabeth Webb, who is a Spanish teacher in Decatur City Schools, served as the mistress of ceremony.
“She talked about the Spanish language, culture and why it is so important to learn the Spanish language,” Douglas said.
In addition, Webb taught a few Spanish dances to attendees young and old, including the Salsa and the Merengue. She also had a part in describing different arts, crafts and foods enjoyed in Spanish culture that were showcased at the festival.
Sayda Martinez, a student at Mae Jemison High School in Huntsville, gave a presentation on traditional dress attire worn in Mexico. There was also a dress attire competition that took place. Martinez won the “12-17” category, and Kayla Adams was the winner in the “Over 18” category. Adams and her daughter, Dora Disla, also showcased different items from Mexico.
Sayda Martinez poses in her traditional Mexican attire. CONTRIBUTED
Music was provided by Huntsville-based DJ Pat’s Disc Jockey Services, and Douglas said all the children enjoyed dancing along. Of course, when the children weren’t having fun dancing, they were having a blast breaking piñatas.
Douglas also noted that the specific songs and dances showcased at the festival were performed by locals who are native Spanish speakers.
Though Hispanic Heritage Month ended in mid-October, the culture lives on each day through areas such as art, dance, music, science, food, education, engineering, family and friends. This is something Douglas aims to communicate to others through her organization.
“Hispanics (and) Latinos have made great contributions, accomplishments and history throughout the world,” she said.
Douglas also added that many attendees approached her at the event to thank her for bringing awareness of the Spanish culture to Madison and the surrounding community.
According to Douglas, Rosie’s International Services, which was established in 2005, aims to “enrich and enlighten the community with culture through art in education, vocal and instrumental music, mentoring, Spanish summer camps, youth recruitment and volunteering.” The Spanish summer camps that the organization offers serve kids ages 5-17 during the month of June. Douglas said the students are recognized with a fiesta at Big Spring Park in Huntsville.
Not only does Rosie’s International Services seek to enrich the lives of children, but the organization also aims to honor those who have served or are currently serving in the military. The festival had several items and prizes to give away, including a free hotel stay, complementary of Homewood Suites in downtown Huntsville. The winner of that prize was a veteran of 36 years.
“He was excited,” Douglas said.
Rosie’s International Services is looking to host the celebration again next year.
