Movimiento Estudiantil Chican de Aztlán (MEChA) holds meetings every Thursday in room 220 with the mission to spread cultural awareness and pride, academic growth and leadership, and community service and advocacy.
Co-President Senior Rudy Galvan said, “MEChA is more than a club, but rather a place that builds a community and a movement that stands for equality, education, and embracing culture and traditions. I also want to point out that you don’t have to be Latino to join; everyone is welcome to join us regardless of your background.”
Galvan said, “Being a part of MEChA has helped me take pride in my heritage, and representing my culture has allowed me to feel connected to other people. Knowing that I’m not alone has pushed me to keep hosting meetings, even if only a few people pop out. I know that those people genuinely care, and that’s what makes every meeting worth it.”
Club Secretary Junior Yartiza Martinez said, “I love how we get to talk about our experiences and culture along with being surrounded by people who understand us. I also appreciate how we come from different backgrounds but all unite as a club.”
Senior Co-President Jenifer Castañeda said, “Growing up as a Mexican-American, I always wanted to know more about my cultural heritage. Beyond the amazing traditional dishes and the differences in dialect within Mexico, learning about the history and presence of the Latino community is both inspirational and eye-opening.”
“[MEChA] provides a space to learn and discuss the history and presence of Latino culture and create change on campus by breaking stereotypes and collectively creating beautification projects,” said Castañeda.
“Club members learn and improve skills that will help them in school and in their lives through self-expression and personal growth opportunities. Being a member looks good on college apps, because they like to know that you are involved in your community and work to make a difference,” said Castañeda.
Galvan said, “At our meetings, we discuss our culture, ranging from what we know about traditions, personal experiences, and the history of what it means to be a Chicano. For example, at our last meeting, we dedicated it to November first and second, the Day of the Dead. To celebrate, we made calaveras [skulls] dedicated to our past loved ones and honored them by hanging them up around the ofrenda in the Media Center.”
“We welcome students into an inclusive and supportive community that bonds through cultural appreciation, shared experiences, and club-organized projects. Members meet people from similar backgrounds and make friends. Through the process of recruiting club members, I have been able to meet and speak with other Latino students on campus. Through the discussions at our club meetings, I have learned more about my friends and bonded with other club members,” said Castañeda.
Castañeda said, “I aim to create a community that draws strength from our cultural heritage and is motivated to speak out, chase our dreams, and uplift one another. If you’re curious about Chicano history, looking for academic support, or just want a space to belong, I am here for you. La Unión Hace La Fuerza.”`