Students from the Chicano clubs at Sacramento State mingled, danced and relaxed to Latino music at the Multi-Cultural event, La Raza Bienvenida, Tuesday night.

La Raza Bienvenida means welcome to all races.

Joaquin Casteneda, student ambassador of the Movimiento Estudiantial Chicano de Aztlan, (MECHA) club said the goal of La Raza Bienvenida was to show a greater presence of unity among Chicano students on campus.

Casteneda wanted this event to showcase the Chicano community and bring all clubs together to create dialogue with administration and professors. In the past La Raza Bienvenida has been an annual event for MECHA. However, this is the first year they have invited all clubs to attend.

“This gives an opportunity for different stakeholders a way to get to know each other,” Casteneda said.

Sophomore Yeimi Lopez said she is involved with the community and being part of this club allows her to be at the grassroots for social change.

Eric Vega, lecturer for the Ethnic Studies Department encouraged all students to become political activist and stand up for the rights of minorities.

Freshman Eddie Lavana said he plans to join MECHA. He felt MECHA is a great organization to make new friends.

This was the first time Patricia Montung had attended any club functions. “At first I was nervous meeting people, but I enjoyed the event. It was like meeting a family. We all have so much in common and there is so much diversity,” Montung said.

Leticia Perez, counselor for the Educational Opportunity Program, said there would be workshops in October for students who haven’t declared a major yet and help on how to get a job in specific career field.

Sally King can be reached at [email protected]