|
Dear DCI School Community,
We are thrilled to celebrate our Hispanic Heritage Month event, La Gran Fiesta, this Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine! There will be musical and student performances, fun activities and crafts, food and more!
The celebration will take place in the DCI Aspen parking lot on 14th and Aspen St NW, which will be closed to cars. We encourage you to take public transportation to the event as limited street parking is available. If you park in the neighborhood, please be mindful of our neighbors, respect and abide by all street signs and do not block any access points for pedestrians or vehicles. We are also looking forward to our potluck and there is still time to sign up to share a dish from your country! Sign up by tomorrow, Friday, October 4 at noon here. If you have any questions about the potluck, please contact Brian Garcia, Family Engagement Liaison. There will also be a taco truck on site with delicious tacos for sale.
In addition, every week of Hispanic Heritage month, we are highlighting the stories of our Hispanic/Latino/a/x/e staff and students. They are sharing their pride and excitement for this month by providing a snapshot into their cultures.
This week we’re spotlighting DCI senior, Mateo Post Chiquillo, and HS Science Teacher, Rodrigo Pedraza Garcia.
Mateo’s story:
For me, being Latino at DCI is being part of a huge community of people who come or have from so many different backgrounds but unite under the fact that we are all Latino. It’s great that even though we all have different life stories and experiences that we’re so open and accepting to everyone. As a half Dutch half Salvadoran, I know what it feels like to not be Salvadoran enough or Dutch enough for others. But, at DCI I have never been questioned or judged about my identity. I’m so glad that latinidad is being celebrated in this way at DCI and I hope our community can continue to set a standard on how to be an open and welcoming community.
Rodrigo’s story:
One thing that makes me proud to be Colombian is how my culture revolves around celebrating every small thing in life with the people you love. Whether it's through dancing, eating, or yapping, Colombians tend to be extroverted because we value community and the present day more than the future.
Whenever I’m with my family, it’s always about community and being together. It could be during a win from a soccer game with people on the street honking and cheering or at a fine dining restaurant where patrons stand up and dance with each other. It’s not weird like in America.
Colombians are always very thankful for little things. Saying “Gracias” is different in Colombia than in other countries because we are deeply appreciative of people’s time and effort. It’s rude to say “De nada” because it does not convey a strong sense of service. Rather, it is better to say “A la orden” or “Con gusto” because it shows that we are not only very grateful, but also equally as appreciative to be of service to others.
These are some of the little details that play into the beautiful aspects of Colombian culture that I am so proud of!
Gracias, Mateo and Rodrigo, for being open and sharing a bit of yourself with our DCI community!
Important Reminder
High School Picture Day is Tomorrow, Friday, Oct. 4
Students will have their photos taken throughout the day by last name alphabetically.
| 
