Several City College clubs and organizations hosted the annual Dia de la Raza event on Oct. 12 at the Gorton Quad.

A celebration of the Hispanic heritage of Latin America, Dia de la Raza brings into it ethnic and cultural influences making it distinctive. It is typically celebrated in Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Honduras, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Uruguay.

“It is very important for students from all ethnic backgrounds to understand the true purpose of Dia de la Raza,” Spanish professor Rosalinda Sandoval said.

“The beautiful thing about Dia de la Raza is that it is celebrated widely throughout California. I honestly feel that students from all ethnic backgrounds should become knowledgeable of (the celebration),” City College student Omar Moreno said.

The scent of carne asada and beans and rice was in the air as members of the City College Spanish Club cooked. During the festivities, members of MEChA also handed out flyers providing more in-depth information about the history of the festivities.