Students sang and celebrated culture under the disco lights at Long Beach City College karaoke night on Tuesday, highlighting Latinx heritage month for a community of music and community.
This event was held by the Social Justice Intercultural Center (SJIC) in B-206. It drew students who were ready to sing classics and connect.
Karaoke night is a monthly event that is sponsored to celebrate different cultural and ethnic groups.
“ I want students to feel engaged and welcomed, I want them to have fun on campus after a long day,” outreach specialist James Ceja said.
The SJIC room’s atmosphere was illuminated by disco lights, enhanced with speakers, and accompanied by food and soft drinks.
Community members react to Nicholas Beckford performance of Thriller by Micheal Jackson during karaoke night at Long Beach City College’s Social Justice Intercultural Center on Tuesday, Sept. 30. (Isaiah Ryan)
Students were encouraged to perform a variety of different songs while they socialized amongst each other and had a great time.
“I usually sing around my family, but this was a new experience singing in front of others, especially being the first one was nerve-racking,” said student Julianna Chirinos after she sang “Rata De Dos Patas” by Paquita La Del Barrio.
The second singer of the night, student Nicholas Beckford, sang “Thriller” by Michael Jackson and said, “I picked this song to match the season of Halloween, and it’s iconic, so why not?”
The event was aimed to create a space where students could express themselves and connect with culture through music.
“Music is one of those universal languages where it kind of resonates with everybody, no matter what culture you come from,” Alejandro Flores, a SJIC staff member, said.
Without much dancing, the crowd maintained energy, and cheered on each performer and even joined in on a few songs together.
When asked about the challenges of hosting events like this, organizers said the biggest hurdle turnout is when events are held after regular class hours.
“The biggest battle is getting students to show up, especially after hours and people go home or work, but we are grateful for everybody who does show up, ” SJIC staff member Alejandro Flores said.
When asked if LBCC should host more events like this, several students said yes. “I think there should be events like this more often, it gets people more connected and involved with student life,” said student Nash Neyra.
The night ended with plenty of smiles and laughter as students thanked the organizers while walking out.
The next karaoke night will be on Oct. 28 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at SJIC in B-206 for Filipino heritage month.
You must be logged in to post a comment.