NMSU’s Latin American Programs (LAP) held Selena Day at Pete’s Patio, celebrating the iconic Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla on her birthday, April 16.
The event provided free food from NMSU’s La Jefa restaurant, along with music, costume contests, and drag performances. Goodie bags were provided and filled to the brim with Mexican candy.
For the costume contests, attendees were invited to dress up in various Selena-themed outfits, namely Riena del Rodeo (Queen of the Rodeo) and El Chico del Apartamento 512 (The Guy from Apartment 512). Maya Celeste Rivera came out as the winner of Riena del Rodeo, and all winners received prizes.
Drag performers also performed in their own Selena-inspired garb. One performer by the name of Barbie made a reference to her red lipstick and glittering bustiers.
Selena Quintanilla, known for her songs such as “Amor Prohibido” and “Como la Flor,” passed away in 1995 at age 23 after being shot by the president of her fan club, Yolanda Saldivar.
Also known as the “Queen of Tejano Music,” the LAP hosts the event annually in remembrance of her.
“She was a really inspirational singer,” LAP member Glindia Carter said. “And she wasn’t just a singer, she was a very inspirational person, and we just wanted to remember her.”
As the first Tejano, or Tex-Mex artist to win a Grammy, Selena’s work helped bridge the gap between Spanish and English-language music, specifically in American mainstream media. She also made an impact on popular fashion with her sparkly bustiers.
While some attendees listen to the singer since childhood, many had recently found her classics, but still took the opportunity to celebrate. With roots in Mexico, her music and image can be a draw to those interested in and a part of the culture.
“I didn’t really listen to her… for me, I’m part of this because I’m a first-generation student,” Carter said. “I kind of originated [in Latin America], and I’m trying to get back to my roots.”
Others in LAP mentioned similar stories. Darien Salayandia, a member of LAP, said that being from Mexico and hearing Selena’s songs before, that much of her popularity lies in the U.S.
“Selena is more from the Latin people that live in the U.S.,” Salayandia said. “But if you are living in Latin America, you don’t listen to Selena as much as [people do] here.”
For some, Selena stands as an artist heard occasionally on the radio, but not delved into deeper or listened to. Jose Aragon, a member of LAP, said the scenario applied to him.
“I didn’t know Selena until I was like 15,” Aragon said. “I mean, I heard her songs, but I didn’t know her.”
Whether the singer stands as a popular figure or not, her impact on the music industry – and her ability to make people dance – can’t be denied.
“When I was like, a little little girl [everyone] was like ‘Selena!’” Carter said. “Even I was like, ‘Ah!’”
As the event came to a close, the NMSU community made it clear that Selena Quintanilla will be remembered.
More information on LAP, including future events, can be found on their Instagram or website.
Read the Spanish translation of this article here.
