Hispanic Heritage month in full swing

Celebrating the Latino community should extend year-round, said Lillian Casillas, director of the IU La Casa Latino culture center.\n“(Latinos) don’t stop living after October 15,” Casillas said. \nNational Hispanic Heritage Month kicked off Friday, and the celebration, which ends Oct. 15, is a tribute to the Latino community.\nThe semi-formal celebration included words from Mayor of Bloomington Mark Kruzan and performances by North Star Capoeira and classical guitar student Eduardo Mendoza. \nWelcoming new and old students of all ethnicities to Bloomington, Kruzan stressed their important presence in \nthe city. \n“I look forward to this event every year,” Kruzan said of the opening ceremony. “This is the time of year that Bloomington really comes alive.” \nLa Casa was at the opening celebration, along with various other student and community organizations. After introductions by the Latino culture and support groups, the North Star Capoeira Angola group captivated the attention of all present. Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art that incorporates dance with music played on indigenous instruments. \nSophomore Stephen Strader said he enjoyed the ceremony. \n“I think it’s important for everyone to know the impact Latinos have on the community,” Strader said. “And I wanted to see the Capoeira guys perform.”