BME Dances the Night Away Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

On Wednesday, September 25, the Biomedical Engineering Department's DEI committee hosted an engaging salsa class at the Medical Campus to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Organized by a PhD student, Lynette Lopez from the Bone Bioengineering Lab, and in collaboration with the Columbia Latin Dance Club, the event brought together students, faculty and staff for an evening of music, dance and cultural appreciation.

Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place from September 15 to October 15, gives BME students the chance to celebrate their culture and share it with others. Salsa is a Latin American dance style with deep roots in the rich cultural traditions of Hispanic and Latino communities. It originated in the late 19th century in Eastern Cuba, influenced by Afro-Cuban dance forms like son, danzón, and mambo. The dance style eventually made its way to New York City in the 1960s, where it underwent a transformation and rose to prominence in nightclubs and social gatherings, becoming a vibrant part of the city’s cultural tapestry. Today, New York City is considered a global hub for salsa music and dance, reflecting the dynamic fusion of Latin and American cultures.

The salsa class was not just an opportunity to learn dance steps, but also a moment to recognize the influence of Hispanic and Latin American culture on the fabric of New York City. For those interested in continuing their salsa journey, the Columbia Latin Dance Club hosts Salsa and Bachata classes every Wednesday from 7 pm to 9 pm at 50 Haven Ave. For more information on the club and to get involved, click here.

photo courtesy of Lynette Lopez