Written by Hannah Brooks & Makenzie Mcauliffe

Photos by Jamehson Ringer & Kyra Hicks

Editor's note: Article edited by West Orange-Stark Communications

National Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration held from September 15 to October 15 that honors the history, culture, and contributions of American citizens with roots in Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

September 15 marks the independence anniversary for five Central American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It is celebrated to recognize the history, culture, and countless contributions of Hispanic Americans to the United States.

West Orange-Stark High School held a program where students learned the true meaning behind Hispanic heritage. The program featured girls wearing traditional Quinceañera dresses. One participant, Jocelynne Martinez, showcased a traditional dress from the central Mexican state of San Luis Potosí. Her handmade, pure white dress was adorned with flowers. Martinez explained the tradition by recalling her own Quince two years ago; the event included grand family introductions, followed by the brindis, a ceremonial toast her aunt gave to symbolize the transition from childhood to adulthood. The celebration ended with a baile sorpresa, an elaborate dance performed with her damas (her court of maids). 

Martinez said Quinceañeras have many sponsors to help them with the party; at some quinces,  young ladies are gifted real gold jewelry, which represents that they are 15. It shows how they will handle responsibility, courage, respectfulness, and much more. It carries a wonderful meaning. Some families spend over 50k on the extravagant dresses and parties, creating an experience they will never forget.