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With flags waving and protest signs held high, Mi Gente dancers filled the Dance Center stage with movement and message, blending Latin American dance traditions with a call for immigrant rights.

Mi Gente, Columbia’s Latin American dance club, held a showcase as a part of the ongoing Festival of Dance Clubs presented by the Dance Center.

The performance followed the story of the narrator’s grandmother learning various dances and to embrace Latin American culture throughout her journey from Puerto Rico to Chicago. The group performed styles such as samba and tango, aligning with the stages of travel and self discovery. 

SOC representative Kameron Murray explained that the narration was meant to highlight the family values present in Latin American cultures.

“We needed something that would actually resonate with an audience more than just having a bunch of dance numbers that might not get to certain other people,” the junior English major said. “It helps to connect this to the real world.”

President of Mi Gente, Leslie Torres, said that many members of the group were looking forward to the performance because the storyline highlighted an array of cultures and Latin American music.

“We want to bring more genres or more opportunities for people to dance, because a lot of the dancers have never done genres like this,” Torres said.

She said the showcase also made her reflect on how to represent all types of Latin American music and dances going forward.  

First-year graphic design major Alex Otto said that since joining Mi Gente, she’s enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere. 

“They take people from all different cultures and opportunities and just to have fun and dance,” Otto said. “Most of the people that I’ve met through this are going to be friends of mine later on.”

First-year theatre arts production and practice major Liliana Napoles Carrera also said that the club offers a sense of openness.

“I’ve been to every single class, it’s so much fun,” she said. “Everybody is welcome, so even if you’re a beginner, you can start from the bottom and start fresh.”

At the end of the showcase, the dancers held up protest signs with slogans like “Abolish ICE Now!” and “The only thing more powerful than hate is love,” as they performed a final group number.

The celebration of the diversity of Latin American cultures resonated with members of Mi Gente.

“I performed the show for my family,” said Napoles Carrera. “My dad is an immigrant, so he got to be here and just see the show.” 

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