West Hempstead Public Library celebrates Colombian Independence Day with music, dance | Herald Community Newspapers

The West Hempstead Public Library brought the sights and sounds of Colombia to the community on July 21 with a celebration of Colombian Independence Day, marking what organizers hope will become an annual tradition.

The event was organized by bilingual library aid Piedad Ramirez, who wanted to recognize the holiday after noticing that it had not been widely celebrated at public libraries throughout Nassau County. Held the day after Colombia’s Independence Day, the program featured traditional music, folkloric dance performances and a festive atmosphere highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage.

“We are celebrating,” Ramirez said. “and they’re going to talk a little bit about Colombia.”

Performers included Sophia Angulo, Kike Olaya, Julian Gomez, Carlos Rienzo, Valeria Olaya-Florez and Mar Joelle of the Karla Florez School of Dance in Queens. Together, they showcased traditional Colombian music and dances representing different regions of the country, giving attendees an opportunity to experience the diversity of Colombia’s cultural traditions.

The celebration also included a cake decorated in the yellow, blue and red colors of the Colombian flag, adding to the festive spirit. Along with the performances, attendees learned about Colombia’s history and the significance of its independence.

“I’m hoping this is the first step to continue doing it,” she said, “or other libraries would come and take the idea from here.”

Beyond celebrating the holiday, the event also served as an opportunity to encourage more members of the Hispanic community to visit the library and take advantage of its many resources. The West Hempstead Public Library offers English as a Second Language classes, cultural programs and other services designed to support and engage Spanish-speaking residents.

By combining live entertainment, cultural education and community outreach, the celebration highlighted the library’s commitment to reflecting the diversity of the West Hempstead community while creating opportunities for residents to learn about different cultures.