On Sept. 16, to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, the club Viva La Raza hosted its annual Desayuno breakfast celebration in the Ogilvie Lobby.
The morning event welcomed faculty, staff and some students to gather, enjoy authentic dishes, and celebrate the rich traditions and culture of the Hispanic community.
The breakfast menu featured favorites like pan dulce, plátano frito, and avena de tres leches.
“Everybody likes it,” Chef Mark Harris said, referring to avena de tres leches. “It is a creamy tres leches oatmeal topped with walnuts and sliced bananas.”
The atmosphere was warm and inviting, filled with laughter, good energy, and the smell of freshly prepared food.
“Food is a big part of Hispanic culture,” said Evelyn Turrubiartes, president of Viva La Raza. “I love being able to share it with the community.”
Chef Harris, who prepared the dishes, elaborated further.
“Eating multiple recipes from different countries and cultures helps resemble the culture and atmosphere,” he said.
So what does Desayuno mean to Hispanic culture for Kinkaid?
According to club sponsor, Upper School history and social sciences teacher Ms. Angela Wainright, Desayuno predates the Viva La Raza club.
“Desayuno started around 2007 or 2008, while Viva La Raza only began hosting it in 2017,” Ms. Wainright said.
She went on to explain that the event highlights the importance of food and community, bringing people together.
“It serves as the perfect kickoff to Hispanic Heritage Month, encouraging everyone to embrace and celebrate Hispanic culture,” she said.
Turrubiartes agreed, sharing a similar perspective.
“It allows some of the staff at Kinkaid to share the importance of food to Hispanic culture,” Turrubiartes said. “It gives the small Hispanic community at Kinkaid a chance to celebrate and express their culture and roots.”
Viva La Raza continues to plan events throughout the month to deepen everyone’s understanding and appreciation of Hispanic heritage while fostering a greater sense of community and diversity across the school.
