Western Oregon Journal

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Western is home to many student clubs and organizations.

Clubs for people interested in American Sign Language, business and economics, theatre and yes, there are even clubs for Harry Potter fanatics and aspiring jugglers.

However, most students aren't aware of a little-known organization on campus called the "El Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano/a de Aztlán," or MEChA.

The emphasis of the MEChA organization is to promote higher education for all students, focusing more on the Chicano-Latino community. They seek to promote, facilitate and actively encourage the recruitment of Chicano and Latino students into higher education by emphasizing the importance of La Raza, or cultural pride.

"We are a great opportunity for anyone seeking involvement in reaching out or for anyone who wants to be part of a fun-loving group who embraces the Latino-Chicano culture," said Andrea Acre, MEChA secretary.

The group works closely with various non-profit organizations in helping better their community through community service. Currently the group is involved with Habitat for Humanity. "We are really excited," Arce said, "to be working on a home that is being built in Independence. We are hoping to be involved with that until the home is finished."

Cultural exchange is also a big part of the MEChA organization. The group continually promotes the sharing and educating of different cultures and promotes awareness and pride in their national identity through their own rich culture.

MEChA's big project each year is playing host to the Chicanito Tour. The Chicanito Tour is a conference that aims to expose high-school students to the college atmosphere. "This year our Chicanito Tour will consist of smaller, more intimate groups of high-school students," Arce said. "We are also trying to focus more on smaller, lower-budget schools who don't always have the opportunity to tour universities," she said. This year's first Chicanito Tour will be held on Nov. 18 in the Werner University Center.

During spring term, MEChA will host their annual "Chicano Week," April 24-27, to expose Western students to the Chicano culture. "We are working on being more visible on campus and making sure everyone understands that we are a club that is open to anyone and everyone!" Acre said.

Also during spring term, MEChA will host a "Noche de Reconocimiento" (Night of Recognition) to recognize the outstanding contributions made by members of the Western MEChA, Western faculty and staff and other community members.

Currently, the Western MEChA chapter has about 35 members, but they are always looking for fresh new faces. If interested in joining the MEChA organization, meetings take place every Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the Calapooia Room of the Werner University Center. Everyone is welcome.

"It is like a second family," Western MEChA member Armida Ramirez said, "A home away from home."

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