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As the semester draws to a close, MAAV wishes to reflect on our first project unveiling, and boy was it a hit! The Blue Ridge Montañitas Festival, held on September 28, 2024, in Luray, Virginia, celebrated the fusion of Appalachian and Latino cultures with music, dance, and many different workshops. As a part of the Montañitas Reimagined project, it showcased Appalachiano music, traditional foods, and art, while promoting cross-cultural education and storytelling. The festival, inspired by deep community roots, welcomed everyone!
When asked about the event, Dr. Amy Price Azano of the Center for Rural Education stated, “People often think of rural communities, especially in Appalachia, as white, monolingual, monolithic spaces when, in reality, they are wonderfully diverse,” said Price Azano. “We are excited to share the culture, language, music, food, art, and dance from Appalachians with Latine heritage who make up the core and fabric of the Shenandoah Valley.” To stay updated on the great work that Montañitas Reimagined is doing, follow them on Instagram at @montanitasproject, @luaproject.
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