In a few short days, we will celebrate National Latinx Heritage Month, which is traditionally held from September 15 – October 15. Latinx Heritage Month honors the history, culture, and contributions of Americans whose ancestry may intersect with 20 countries in Latin America, including México, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
One of the most important Mexican holidays occurs during Latinx Heritage Month. 16 de Septiembre marks Mexican Independence Day, which celebrates Mexico’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1810. People of Mexican descent worldwide celebrate this significant moment in their country's history, when a brave priest, Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, rang his church bell and made a stirring speech that set the War of Independence from Spain in motion. Even today, the President of Mexico takes part by ringing the same bell, which is now over 200 years old. This festival is packed with celebrations of national pride, fiestas, colorful parades, mariachi music, and plenty of food.
UNC will kick off Latinx Heritage Month on September 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the César Chávez Cultural Center. Join the Center's students and staff and celebrate with live music and entertainment.
I encourage you to attend the planned events by registering here or visit the Chávez Center or social media for more information. The following is a sample of events planned during Latinx Heritage Month:
- El Movimiento Exhibit Opening Reception
- Leo Tanguma Exhibit, Campus Commons Gallery
- History and Civil Rights Panel: The Chicano Movement in NoCo
- Artist Talk with Leo Tanguma, Campus Commons Gallery
- Latinx Heritage Month and LGBTQI+ Celebration Keynote Speaker, Alan Palaez Lopez
- Volunteer for Weld County Project Connect with United Way
- Greeley Multicultural Festival, University Center Ballroom
Thank you so much for being so supportive, and I look forward to seeing you at these events.
For additional education and personal development related to diversity, equity and inclusion, the following resources are available: DDEI Education and Resources, DEI & Antiracism Resources from the UNC Libraries, the Education Equity Toolkit from the Colorado Department of Higher Education, and the UNITE workshops for faculty, staff, and students.
#VAMOSOSOS
Dr. Tobias J. Guzmán
Vice President of the Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Pronouns: He|Him
