The Latino American Student Organization will be holding an event to teach students about piñatas today in the Bridge Lounge of the Martin Luther King Jr. University Union.

Students will be able to learn Mexican history, origins and cultural importance. Students will also learn how to make their own piñata.

Students who make their piñatas will be allowed to take their piñatas home as well.

Dana Barnard, an advisor in charge of overseeing Monday’s event, said she thinks this event will help people learn not only more about piñatas, but also as way to teach students more about the Mexican culture.

“The goal is to break down some of the stereotypes in the Latin culture such as the origins of piñatas, food and the dances,” Barnard said. “We want to get rid of the false beliefs of these things, such as, the piñatas and dances are all from Mexico when truly they are not.”

There will be display boards set up in the bridge walkway with information on the Mexican culture. The event will occur from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Students are free to come during that time to learn more about piñatas.

People will also be on hand to help students with crafting and creating piñatas.

This event is part of the many events that LASO has had throughout this month because September is Latin Heritage Month.

Another events scheduled for this week is Latin dancing. Students can learn several Latin American dances with the help of dance instructors. The Latin dance event will be Thursday, Sept. 30.

Juanita Cross, head advisor of the Latin American Student Organization, has been responsible for helping to set up the events throughout the month.

“The goal of LASO is to unite minority students on campus and help the campus learn more about Latin American culture,” Cross said.

Steven Puschmann can be reached at 581-7942 or

srpuschmann@eiu.edu.