By
Nicole DeRouen
Literature is essential to the well-being of communities, including those of the El Paso region. Sometimes, however, inspiring communities to be more involved in the literary world is harder than it may seem. El Paso Community College is keenly aware of this and has been part of the solution for almost two decades. Every October for the past 16 years, EPCC has hosted the annual Literary Fiesta.
Part of the Salute to the Arts initiative, the Fiesta focuses on celebrating reading and writing throughout borderland communities.
With everything from speakers and writing workshops to activities for little ones, the Literary Fiesta promises to be quite an event. This year, there will be presentations by local author Yasmin Ramirez and Books Are Gems, both of whom are receiving awards for their contributions to literacy in El Paso. Ramirez will be receiving the Literary Legacy Award for her outstanding achievement in the world of books. According to EPCC, “The award commends an author who is committed to empowering readers of all ages and backgrounds, as well as public service in support of education.”
Ramirez has certainly done this, as she has received multiple awards for her writing and contributions to the field of literature. She was honored with the 2023 Southwest Book Award as well as several awards for her work in Latino and young adult literature.
The winner of the Community Spirit Award, Books Are Gems, has made significant contributions to literacy in the Borderland and has been serving the community for just over 20 years. The organization’s mission statement explains, “Our all-encompassing vision focuses on placing a free book in the hands of every child, achieving essential change one book at a time.” Books Are Gems distributes roughly 100,000 books a year and they more than deserve the recognition of the Community Spirit Award.
The event will also feature a talk by Leon Blevins, a former political science professor at the college. He will be presenting his new book, a romance called “Shapes and Shadows,” to the public and discussing the importance of literature.
Saralah Aguilar, the coordinator for the event, says that the Literary Fiesta is one of the most important ways for the college to connect with the El Paso community. Aguilar loves the uniqueness of the event, and she especially enjoys acknowledging the talent in El Paso and Las Cruces.
“I love listening to the author’s workshops and then presenting the awards to the author and to the community spirit award winner. It’s just wonderful to be able to recognize them and for all the wonderful and outstanding work that they do,” she explained.
The Fiesta will be offering henna tattoos for the public, a writing workshop from EPCC’s Chrysalis, and readings from EPCC students, as well as soda and food. The EPCC Literary Fiesta will take place on October 23, 2024, from 11:00 am – 3:30 pm at the EPCC Valle Verde location.
Come on by for fun, food, and free books!
