Finding Community and Sustainability in Portland’s Latin Dance Scene
I started dancing when I decided to take a salsa class in September 2021, my senior year of college. I had decided that I needed an activity outside of college that involved moving my body, and I wanted to connect with my Latin roots. So, I decided to enroll in beginners salsa at Vitalidad Movement Arts Center (VMAC), a dance studio that is family and minority-owned. After a month of taking this class, I found myself hooked. I had no idea what I had unknowingly tapped into. I found something that provided me with a joy I couldn’t explain. I made so many friends and, before I knew it, I was an integral part of a community I had not known existed just months before.
Portland’s vibrant Latin dance community is a testament to the power of culture, connection, and sustainability. Amidst the rhythmic beats and lively movements, there exists a profound sense of unity and shared purpose. This community not only celebrates the joy of dance but also exemplifies a commitment to honoring culture and community building.
I can’t speak for communities elsewhere in the world, but the majority of Portland’s Latin dance community is dedicated to inclusivity and diversity. Regardless of background or experience, everyone is welcomed with open arms, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance. While there are certainly exceptions, I can say that the people I surround myself with come from so many different walks of life, and yet we welcome each other all the same. This inclusive ethos extends beyond the dance floor, as members actively strive to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive and grow. In my opinion, the basis for this culture building begins at the dance studios where people begin their dance journey. For example, VMAC creates group chats and encourages people to take on whichever dance role they prefer, regardless of gender.
Seemingly unintentionally, sustainability lies at the core of this community. I hadn’t made the connection between my passion for dance and sustainability until recently. I am in the process of organizing a Spring clothes swap (the second clothes swap I’ve organized at the dance studio) and realized just how sustainable a community like this one can be. Through collaborative efforts and mindful practices, dancers and organizers work together to reduce their environmental footprint. This includes initiatives such as carpooling to events (a frequent occurrence), lending and borrowing outfits, costumes, and decorations, and promoting recycling and waste reduction through clothing swaps. Additionally, the amount of sharing and help offered to others within the community shows how this ethos goes beyond just dancing.
Moreover, the sustainability of the Portland Latin dance community is also evident in its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering intergenerational connections. Experienced dancers generously share their knowledge and skills with newcomers, ensuring the continuity of traditions while embracing innovation and evolution. This mentorship not only enriches the community but also empowers individuals to become leaders and ambassadors for Latin dance culture.
I am referring in large part to VMAC’s ambassadorship program, of which I am a part. It’s a way for more experienced dancers to take a leadership role and help other dancers learn and feel involved in the community. Ambassadors volunteer their time to help students outside of classes practice and understand the material. The studio volunteers their space for free. All of this is in the name of building community and helping newcomers feel welcome.
A newer event series is movie nights focusing on movies that discuss the culture and history of Latin dance. These are free events to create community and start discussions about culture and history, a part of Latin dance that is often ignored. Many who have ever heard of salsa or bachata have no idea that the African roots of each dance style is an important part of what makes it what it is today. The culture and history of Latin dance are rich and a vital aspect of understanding and fully embracing the dance
Community building is at the forefront of every initiative within the Portland Latin dance scene. Regular social events, workshops, and performances serve as catalysts for forging new friendships and strengthening existing bonds. These gatherings transcend mere entertainment, serving as platforms for cultural exchange, dialogue, and collaboration.
As we look to the future, the sustainability and resilience of Portland’s Latin dance community serve as inspiring examples for communities worldwide. By prioritizing inclusivity, environmental consciousness, and collective empowerment, this community demonstrates the transformative potential of dance and community as a vehicle for positive change and social cohesion.
Nearly three years ago, I had no idea I was taking the first step toward being a part of a community that I now feel I couldn’t live without. Moreover, I never imagined that I would find a community in which sustainability is effortlessly achieved through our care and consideration for one another.
In essence, Portland’s Latin dance scene is not just about moving to the music; it’s about building bridges, nurturing connections, and creating a more sustainable and inclusive world — one step at a time.
