Celebrating Diversity: The Hispanic Heritage Club at Dobyns-Bennett High School
Kingsport, Tennessee, has a vibrant story unfolding within its high school halls, and it’s all about embracing diversity and culture. The Hispanic Heritage Club at Dobyns-Bennett High School, launched just last year, is not only growing in numbers but also fostering a warm community spirit among students. It all began with a small group of about 40 enthusiastic members, and the club has continued to thrive, showcasing the rich heritage that comes from the Hispanic community.
A Space for Celebration and Learning
Sarah Good, a dedicated sponsor of the club, shares her excitement about this journey. “It is a cool culture that they get to celebrate and it is not quite as well known in East Tennessee,” she explains. Good emphasizes how the club offers a platform for students to teach their peers about their traditions and culture. This initiative allows students to connect over shared experiences and learn from one another, creating a rich tapestry of understanding within the school.
Roots of Inspiration
So, where did this idea spring from? The club’s president, Sarah Arreola, reveals that the inspiration came during a Hispanic student day at a nearby university. “Students gathered and they just wanted to build a club,” says Arreola. She felt it was essential to establish this organization, particularly in an area where Hispanic representation is limited. “We are underrepresented, and this way we can be more represented and have a greater outcome,” she notes, highlighting the importance of visibility and representation within the school.
What Happens in Club Meetings?
The Hispanic Heritage Club meets every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. and is open to all students, regardless of their background. Arreola explains how the meetings are structured, stating, “The first few minutes will be discussing, and then the last part we do more action-based activities.” These activities can vary; for example, they have been seen coloring and decorating the school, creating a warm and welcoming environment. Other times, they brainstorm ideas for their upcoming fundraisers, ensuring that everyone is engaged and participating. It’s not just a club; it’s a community effort to inspire change.
Goals and Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, the club has ambitious plans. One of their main goals is to partner with local businesses and organizations to strengthen community ties. They are also aiming to fundraise enough money to host a Latin prom or some sort of celebratory event at the end of the school year. This would not only provide a fun gathering for students but also serve as a milestone in their mission to promote cultural awareness and appreciation.
Join the Movement!
The Hispanic Heritage Club symbolizes a movement towards embracing differences and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. The enthusiasm emanating from these students is infectious, and their commitment to fostering understanding in a predominately Caucasian area speaks volumes about their determination. By learning about each other’s backgrounds and experiences, the students at Dobyns-Bennett High School are paving the way for a more inclusive future.
As the club continues to grow, it shows how powerful community engagement can be. If you’re in Kingsport and looking for a way to get involved, consider attending a meeting or supporting their endeavors. After all, it’s not just about celebrating heritage, but about building a community where everyone is represented and valued.
