Cool Cultural Clubs: Spotlighting Latino Club
By Jason Aceto
Staff Writer
Author’s note
This is the second article of this series, and I am just getting started. Attending two cultural club meetings, I learned new things about different cultures and met many great people. I can’t wait to learn more as the voyage continues!
What is the Latino club?
They aim to connect with the Latino community at JAC, offering a safe space to celebrate shared cultures and form bonds with people of similar backgrounds.
How long has the Latino club been around, and why was it started?
Now in its fourth year, the club has dedicated itself to amplifying and celebrating the Latino experience.
Why should someone join?
If you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone, make new friends, and dive deeper into the Latin world—this club is for you! The Latino Club is the perfect place to reconnect with your roots, mainly if you’ve had limited contact with your culture. Are you also looking to level up your Spanish? Here, you’ll expand your skills in a complete immersion environment! All it takes is being active in meetings and helping with outreach events. For new members, it’s a chance to connect with people through lifelong friendships and shared interest in Latin customs. Like all cultural clubs, this one offers a rich cultural experience through language, food, holidays, and traditional dress.
Core messages of the Latino club
They aim to build friendships beyond school, creating a happy family. This club opens the minds of new CEGEP students to experience culture from a fresh perspective. You may think you know Latin countries based on stereotypes, but Latino Club introduces you to people from places like Honduras or Guyana—countries often overlooked. That’s what expanding your horizons is all about! The club also
creates a space for people to explore their heritage, free from stereotypes. You don’t need to be from Latin America to join; you only need a strong passion for Latin culture. Here’s a message from an executive herself: ‘If you’re of Latin heritage or eager to learn about our culture and customs, we’d love for you to join—we’ll welcome you with open arms.'”
Firsthand account
Latinos JAC was only the second club I attended at John Abbott, and I had a fantastic time. We dove into the Day of the Dead—a holiday honouring ancestors. The club’s leaders kept the vibe alive with Spanish music and served a delicious traditional Mexican dish! This club celebrates cultural pride like no other: loud, fun, authentic, and unapologetically proud. And to top it off, they even cheered me on for asking a question in “perfect” Spanish!