The Spanish club was transformed into what is now the Hispanic Honor Society at Sandra Day O’Connor in 2023. The club is led by Maestra Zaragoza and represents all aspects of Hispanic culture and also focuses on diversity in our community. At the twice-monthly meetings at Talon Time, we study different traditions and holidays that represent Hispanic culture. Last year, we ran a program called “La Pulsera Project” where we sold bracelets made by artists from South America to help them showcase their art and raise funds to support them. This year, SHH members have learned about cultural events such as the Posadas and Mexican Independence Day.
La Maestra Zaragoza supports all students who continue to learn the Spanish language and Hispanic culture at an advanced level. It teaches us not only about the language, but also about cultural foods, art, religion and the geography of the Hispanic countries. Despite all that the teacher does, the club leaders put all their effort into helping to expose our school to different cultures and languages. We as leaders organize the meetings, make projects and support all our members. One of our goals each year is to improve our own community.
One event we hosted this year was the induction ceremony. Organized by Maestra Zaragoza and our leaders, this October we celebrate the initiation of seven members. The ceremony, which took place in O’ Connor’s mini auditorium, was celebrated with the families of the new members. Everyone dressed professionally and made a commitment to respect the Hispanic culture and continue learning the Spanish language.
As President, my experience at the club would not have been possible without the support and infinite encouragement of Maestra Zaragoza. Her passion for Hispanic culture helped me find my voice and desire to be a leader within my community. As someone who wants to share my culture with O’Connor, the club has given me an opportunity to not only represent myself, but to represent other Hispanic students and our traditions. What makes me most proud of the club is the diversity. We have members from diverse backgrounds, but one thing in common is our desire to learn more about the Spanish culture and language.
As Vice President, my experience at the club has been finding community and being able to have a space where I have been able to express myself and also teach about my culture with people who truly want to learn about it. The Spanish program has helped me a lot to expand my knowledge about my first language and things from other Latin American countries that I would never have learned. This is what we want to promote in the Hispanic Honorary Society. Without forcing anyone, if you have an interest in the Spanish language, if you want a safe space to learn from different cultures, or if you just want to help your community, I recommend that you look for us.