Cars were parked at different angles to display the care and attention to detail that the owners give to their vehicles. Attendees of the event spent time walking through the rows of cars, taking photos and admiring the variety of lowrider vehicles. Ella Banken//AS Review
By MacKenzie Dexter
The 19th annual Ridin’ Low in the 360 was hosted by Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx de Aztlán on Sunday, May 19 in Red Square. Students, community members and people from neighboring towns celebrated and participated in the annual spring event.
The event hosted a number of performers, such as Mariachi de WWU, Baile Folklorico de WWU and Filipino-American Student Association. Raffles, eating contests and hop contests also took place during the event.
“This event is to promote awareness of Chicanx and Latinx culture and heritage. The low riders came from mostly LA because of the history of the chicanx population. Latinx people moved to California and then settle there and now have their own history and grow. It’s fun, it’s beautiful and we have some really great vendors,” Jessica Alvaro, member of Western’s Latinx Student Union, said.
Alvaro said the event is held to show off some cool cars, take pictures and have a fun weekend. She also discussed how the event promotes community and diversity.
“This events benefits Western and Bellingham because it brings together the Latinx community. It also brings the community together in general, from people who have never seen lowrider show cars to people who make this a part of their life,” Alvaro said.
The event allowed members of the community to participate and learn about the Chicanx culture in the Bellingham area.
“This really shows Chicano culture, not just your stereotypical Mexican culture,” Daniela Rodriguez Carranza, member of Latinx Student Union, said. “This is like, Latinx and American combined and not a lot of people know about it. It’s very different to what most people think of, so I think that really benefits Western.”
Students who came to the event explained how the event is a great way to bring people and families together for a fun day.
“It brings a lot of people out to have a good time,” Esmeralda Farias, Western student, said. “What I enjoy about it is the culture. My brother comes up for the event every year and it’s fun to have something that brings us together. People are so interested and excited to be here.”
Businesses and groups in the community also contribute to the Ridin’ Low shown through music, dancing and food.
“This highlights Hispanic culture, show off the cars and bring the community together,” Mariah Alverson, Western student, said. “I think it’s cool to have small businesses here so we can eat, listen to good music and dance. It’s really cool to have everyone together and celebrate a minority community.”