As part of the collective cultural graduation ceremonies being hosted at LBCC, RAICES students were celebrated along with their fellow graduates and families on Saturday, May 20.
Land acknowledgement of the various indigenous lands that the institution lays on such as the Gabrielino/Tongva peoples were given a moment of silence and round of applause.
The graduation ceremony contributed to many cultural celebrations. One was named “The Blessing”, or in Spanish, “La bendición.” It is a well-known celebration in the community.
The Xipe Totec Danzantes Aztecas is another form of cultural celebration where the dancer’s hand-crafted designs with feathers, cloth, led by the sounds of the music. Each performer is unique, representing their identities and their culture. A tribal dance for one of the many communities in RAICES.
A series of speakers were present to deliver keynote addresses. Such as those from Dr. Bill Vega and Jose Gutierrez who said their remarks in great humor.
A certificate of achievement was distributed to mark the time and push towards student graduates at LBCC and to congratulate the continuation of many students and scholars in person and online. As many have put in the time and effort to continue despite the disparities that have kept from succeeding.
Elizabeth Cruz, who was in the crowd as a nursing student, received her certificate of achievement and her associates degree, but is unsure of her next step in education.
Cruz also graduated with honors.
“My goal is to get into the nursing program in Long Beach,” Cruz said.
Anahi Corte who is 33 years old, as well as mother to a 3 year old, earned her associates degree for transfer in sociology and will be transferring to California State University of Long Beach.
“My baby has pushed me,” Corte said.
The closing and congratulations ended with big cheers and applause for the students, faculty and staff that have worked hard to keep public institutions running.
Afterwards, a photo booth was opened to take pictures, as well as a Mexican-Guatemalan food truck and music where students, their families and more gathered to look at their success at LBCC.