For many students, school activities are just something to do after class. But for freshman Valeria Macias, folklórico is more than a hobby. It is a way for her to show pride in her culture, stay motivated, and share something special with others.
“I’ve been dancing folklorico for three years,” Valeria said. “For me, it represents how I see my culture and where I’m from.”
Folklórico is a traditional Mexican dance that tells stories from different regions of Mexico. Each region has its own unique music, dance styles, and vibrant traditional attire. “The history and tradition made many designs influenced by Indigenous and Spanish clothing,” Valeria explained. “The colors are bright because they represent happiness. Some dresses even have ribbons to show where you’re from, like Jalisco or Sinaloa.”
Valeria says one of the biggest lessons she’s learned from folklórico is that anyone can do it if they really want to. “It doesn’t matter your race or the color of your skin,” she said. “If you really want to go for it, go for it. You don’t have to be Hispanic or Mexican to do folklorico; you could be whatever race you are if you enjoy it.”
Staying motivated isn’t always easy, but Valeria looks to her family for inspiration. “I think about my family members in Mexico and how they taught me to dance and to represent my culture,” she said.
She also remembers what her teachers told her about the importance of confidence. “You don’t have to have a slim figure or a bigger figure. As long as you like what you’re doing, you can always do better,” Valeria said.
Teamwork is another important part of the dance. “Sometimes you have to dance with a partner of the opposite gender, but it’s not bad as long as they know the steps,” Valeria explained. “When we’re together, I feel like we do better. But solos can be fun too.”
Even the discipline of folklórico teaches her something. The dresses must be worn in a certain way, and the rules depend on the region of the dance. Valeria explained that details like the length, color, and decorations of the dresses all have meaning.
To Valeria, folklórico is more than just spinning in a dress or keeping up with the music. It’s a way to share who she is. “I feel like folklorico tells a story from different regions and keeps culture alive,” she said.
Through her dancing, Valeria continues to show determination, pride, and passion, one step at a time.
