Music, dance and culture filled the Rice University Memorial Center’s Grand Hall during the annual Nuestra Herencia, an event sponsored by the Office of Public Affairs’ Multicultural Relations as part of Hispanic Heritage month held Oct. 5.
Emceed by Wiess College sophomore Rocio Vides, the day featured performances by Nuestra Palabra’s Tony Diaz, Rice Salseros, Rice Zouk, Los Búhos del Norte, El Ballet Folklórico de Houston and Mariachi Luna Llena.
Vides, who is of Hispanic lineage, shared her excitement for the festivities.
“To me, Nuestra Herencia means sharing my culture, sharing what makes us unique and what our music and dance looks like,” Vides said. “It’s great to be able to see those smiles on other people’s faces when they watch our performances and get to indulge in our culture.”
The idea of community was prominently displayed when a technical difficulty with the sound system during a dance performance turned into a happy surprise. When the music cut out, the crowd picked up by clapping the beat of the music and singing the lyrics, so the group could finish its routine.
That same spirit carried throughout the afternoon. As each group performed, the crowd chanted “Otra! Otra!,” asking for another performance. The feeling of togetherness was palpable.
“The Nuestra Herencia event showcased the best of Hispanic Heritage Month celebration: music, dance, essays, food and community,” said David Medina, director of multicultural community relations. “The audience clapped, danced and had a wonderful time celebrating their heritage.”
For more information about Rice’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, visit aie.rice.edu/hispanic-heritage-month-2025.