The sounds of Afro-Latin music filled The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) building as the Women of Color (WOC) affinity group participated in a Hispanic Heritage Month-inspired dance lesson during Hispanic Heritage Month.
The month, celebrated nationally each year from September 15 through October 15, honors the cultures and contributions of Americans with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
However, African influences are found throughout Hispanic food, music, dance, and other cultural aspects, said Veronika Robinson, who led the dance lesson. Robinson, a longtime dancer, introduced JLC members to kizomba, a music style and dance with Latin, Caribbean, and African roots.
“Everything related to the widely celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month is also related to the history of Africa, slavery and how it affects the global history of humanity and music and dance in particular,” Robinson said.
“Since I started dancing, salsa and bachata have been my passion, but everything regarding African and Hispanic culture is my love,” added Robinson.
The night offered the opportunity to learn about the rich heritage and blending of cultures while enjoying the social aspect of kizomba, which can be danced solo or with a partner.
Members found themselves immersed in the rhythm, which led dancers to loosen up and let their bodies sway to the beat.
“It was important for me to support Afro-Latin night because I love to dance bachata and salsa,” said JLC member Nathaly Paul. “I feel more connected to the dance now after learning that it all comes from Africa, and I feel equipped to share this beautiful history with others.”
Robinson is Principal Instructor and Director at Kizomba Alegria Dance Company, which she opened with her husband, St. Gilles, in Charlotte in 2015. Robinson highlighted the unifying qualities of kizomba dance such as salsa, meringue, bachata and zouk.
“I’ve never seen a single person dancing salsa and not smiling,” Robinson said.
Robinson was excited to partner with WOC Chair Sherri Belfield and Co-Chair Larilyn McGee for the event, which is just one example of the League’s commitment to supporting and exploring diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging while empowering women.
“I find great joy in watching people, especially women, light up when they are moving to the music,” Robinson said. “It gives them a lot of confidence and positivity, and it also helps women discover that sometimes hidden or forgotten femininity.”
