On Oct. 24, between 7 and 10 p.m, Woods hosted its annual Spanish dance Baile de la Gente, inviting the entire high school to a dance featuring Hispanic music and traditional foods. This event was organized by the BIPOC Student Union, who also sold tickets and sopapillas, a traditional fluffy pastry, the week before the dance.

The number of guests throughout the years has remained consistent, with about 30 to 35 in attendance this year.

“It wasn’t full, but still very friendly and not boring at all,” said Odin Withrow, a senior attending the dance. “Those who wanted to stay stayed. It was a very pleasant evening. I did expect more people, there really is no reason not to go. There were great songs and good food, I wish people would make more of an effort to show up.”

The issue of attendance for any school event is no stranger to the Woods community, and both StuCo and dedicated students have tried to find solutions to increase support. Recent attempts have proved successful, exampled by the strong attendance shown at the girls volleyball games. 

People also talk about the importance of accurate representation when attending traditional dances such as the Baile de la Gente (translated as “the dance of the people”).

“I think the representation was good,” said Makena Karunditu, a junior attending the dance. “The music was only Hispanic or by Hispanic artists and the food was kept as traditional as possible. You could make more of an effort for details, but I think for the school it was more than enough.”