On the first and third Tuesday of the month, students gather in room 314 to build connections and create an exciting and comforting environment. Hispanic/Latino Student Union (HLSU), strives to create a comfortable environment for any student, no matter their background and exists as a place where many students encourage an inclusive atmosphere.
In 2022, Sierra Vista introduced HLSU as one of the many cultural clubs in the school, and since then the club made a significant impact on promoting cultural pride, leadership, and community.
Now approaching its fourth year, the club continues to focus on uplifting students and celebrating their identity. HLSU club president, Karina Duenas (11), shares “Our mission is to provide a foundation for growth, motivation, and promotion of excellence of our Hispanic and Latino community.” Duenas added that HLSU works to maintain “an open and safe environment that allows for expression.”
The club operates under a six-position executive board that helps keep everything organized: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian, and Representative. Each role plays a part in handling management, communication, and planning. The Representative position stands out since the role incorporates essential responsibilities, including attending ICC meetings, reporting information back to the board, and representing the club at parent nights, freshman orientation, and many other school events. “They’re the liaison between HLSU and council,” Duenas explained, describing the manner in which the role connects the club to the wider school community.
Several officers deserve recognition, such as HLSU Historian Justin Peña (12), because of his creativity and innovation. Duenas praised this outstanding senior by sharing, “He has many creative ideas and plans for our club and its media.” The treasurer, Arisette Hernandez (11), also plays a major role in keeping the club running smoothly. Duenas noted the way her work supports the club’s goals, “Arisette found our club advisor, helped me with establishing meeting dates, and aided me in brainstorming fundraising events.”
HLSU also hosts events that bring students together while educating students and staff on campus. One of the most memorable events consisted of last year’s multicultural fair, which featured “a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, languages, traditions, music, dance, and food from across Latin America, Spain, and the Caribbean.” The event highlighted the beauty and variety within Hispanic and Latino cultures while giving students a platform to allow self-expression. This year, HLSU hopes to bring back its successful family night and also considers launching a new event called Noche Latina, which the board hopes will spark even more cultural appreciation on campus.
Behind all of HLSU’s activities lies a deeper purpose of giving students a place where they truly feel they belong. Duenas explained that HLSU strives “to create a dynamic hub where students can find community, celebrate their heritage, receive support, advocate for their needs, educate others, and develop as leaders.” Many Hispanic and Latino students, especially first-generation or those from smaller cultural communities, can feel isolated in a new academic setting. HLSU aims to be that “home away from home” that offers comfort, community, and confidence.
With its dedication to cultural pride, leadership building, and student support, HLSU continues to shape Sierra Vista into a more inclusive and connected campus. As the club prepares for its fourth anniversary, its influence only continues to grow.
