WKU News

On Wednesday, April 13, 2022, students gathered from Yertty Vandermolens Spanish 101 class to host an exhibition of Afrolatino culture. The program included poetry recitation, dance, art, cultural presentations, and a culinary display. Modern Languages students Shirma Bott and Sara Blanco, under the direction of Professor Yertty VanderMolen (Spanish) organized the event.

At the beginning of the event, Bott explained what it means to be Afrolatino and how she is proud of her heritage but is not surrounded by it in the United States. This event helped students to appreciate and take part in Afrolatino culture and experience it firsthand, and according to Vandermolen, the event would not have been possible without the strong dedication of her students. Stacey Pedigo, a Spanish 101 student, was responsible for the decorations at the event and for highlighting some famous Afrolatino celebrities in American culture. Students Sarah West and Gabriela Vargas Berroa contributed with a dance. Luke Tuley showcased a tres leches cake whereas Daniel Costa-McFadden gave a presentation on a famous Afrolatino soccer player.

Students learned that there is much diversity among the Latin American community, with Afrolatinidad being an important part of identity. Afrolatinos continually contribute to culture in cultural, culinary, and other ways.

“This event celebrated the significant contribution of Africans and their descendants in the building of nations in the Americas and their rich, cultural impact. It’s time to discuss this population’s contributions in hopes to dispel stereotypes and fight against social exclusion or racism,” said Vandermolen.