From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic Heritage Month is being celebrated at West Liberty University through multiple activities. Specifically, on Wednesday, Sept. 6, Hispanic cuisine was brought to life in the Marketplace during a luncheon presented by Sodexo and The Diversity Committee. This featured various appetizing foods catered to multiple diets.

The menu consisted of Tostones with Mojo Verde, Ensaladilla Rusa, Vegetarian Paella, Alfajores and much more. These foods originated across the globe, including Nicaragua, Spain, the Caribbean, Cuba, Chile and Mexico. Cumin, cilantro and paprika are just a few of the delicious ingredients included in these tasty dishes.The Tostones and Mojo Verde were a popular favorite, along with the Vigorón and Ropa Vieja.

Dr. Felipe Rojas stated that the Ropa Vieja, a Cuban meal which dates back to 1857, had a very authentic taste. Vegetarians and vegans alike reminisced over the delicious Paella, which consisted of a flavorful mix of peas, onion, pepper and saffron threads. Desserts offered to finish the meals were sweet Alfajores and Tres Leches Cake.

Student athlete Nathalia Valencia of Bolivia said, “Ropa vieja with rice, beef and tomato was really good, and also I think the event was important since it’s Hispanic month, and we need to celebrate it in some way. Since a lot of hispanic students attend West Liberty, it was a nice way to honor them.” Valencia went on to describe the dish as very aromatic and sweet.

The importance and benefits of events like these are boundless, allowing international students to indulge in the food of their country and others the opportunity to experience other cultures’ cuisine and traditions. The Diversity Committee hosts multiple events and projects throughout the year, with the next event being Transgender Day of Remembrance on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021.