The Collegian

Issue date: 10/14/05 Section: News

Media Credit: Karyn Gilbert Chris Mullen performs for the students in Danner Hall, Thursday, Sept. 29.

Media Credit: Karyn Gilbert

Media Credit: Karyn Gilbert Custom Mexican beaded jewelery were sold during the event.

Media Credit: Karyn Gilbert Marta Torres and her sister compiled photos from the group, Calpulli Tonaleqhqueh that performed thoughout California

Media Credit: Karyn Gilbert Group shot taken throughout California

MEChA, Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan, is one of many groups of Chicano and Latino student organizations in colleges, universities, high schools and junior high schools in California. This group joins together to learn about their history, to take pride in their culture and celebrate.

"We've seen all the talent and wanted to celebrate everyone talents," said MEChA President Daniela Montejano.

Thursday, in Danner Hall at Delta, MEChA organized their first annual Xochicuicati, flor y canto which means "flower and song" celebration, which included live music, poetry readings, art galleries, and food from their culture.

"I think it's a great opportunity for people and there was a lot of diversity of different nationalities," said MEChA member Marta Torres.

Torres and her sister put together a poster showcasing ceremonies and performances from the dance group Calpulli Tonalehgueh.

Montejano spoke proudly of the event by saying, "This is MEChA's first annual Xochicuicatl celebration. Xochicuicati means 'flor y canto' (flower and song) in Nahuatl, the Aztec language. MEChA's purpose for having this celebration is to expose student talent and celebrate."

The talent show started off with live music from Delta students Trevor, Miram and Omar (whose last names were not given). Following was a band, Dacapo, art displays by Joe Mariscal and Patrico Motecuzoma Sanchez, acoustic performances by Juan Rios, Kristen Johnson, and Chris Mullen, as well as another featured band, Chris & John.

Mullen was the final musician for the event before Montejano open the mic to anyone who wanted to voice their talents.

"That's what I'm playing for the people to enjoy it," he said. While performing, Mullen said he got chills, which he said the chills are "when it's real."

"It's events like this that give the students a chance to show their talent," said Delta student Moses Delao.

MEChA means, in Spanish, "match the reference to its flame, the flame that will guide our people out of the darkness and into the light of political consciousness."

Montejano said they might try to have another event to show more talent in November.

Everyone interested in joining and learning about MEChA can meet with them every Thursday from 12-1 p.m. in the Shima 101 Conference Room.

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