This year, the University of Northern Colorado’s César Chávez Cultural Center (CCCC) is hosting several different activities to celebrate Latinx Heritage Month and to reflect together what it means to proudly carry this heritage.
The month-long national celebration, observed from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, honors the history, culture and contributors of Americans whose ancestry may intersect with 20 countries in Latin America, including Mexico, Central, and South America and the Caribbean. The date of the celebration is significant because the month of September is when many Latin American countries celebrate their independence.
“We hope that this month will help us to better understand what it means to be Latinx or Hispanic, not only for those who identify themselves as such but for everyone else to also understand the challenges we all share for the future of our community,” said Rodolfo Vargas director of CCCC and Undocumented Student Services.
Students, faculty, staff and community members are welcome and encouraged to attend the celebrations to meet new people and explore the diversity of perspectives through different experiences.
“Our culture and history it’s very deep and diverse and oftentimes it is hard for students to see this. So, this kind of event helps us to see that,” said Enrique Benavidez a student in UNC's Chicano Studies and Human Services programs.
Some of the activities that will be held during this month include a race, awareness training, a talk with award-winning author and activist Juana Bordas, a football game and a car show.
“This month, the goal of the programming at UNC and the César Chávez Cultural Center is to host honors and celebrate Hispanic and Latinx heritage, but the work can't stop there,” said Cristóbal Garcia, staff fellow for HSI initiatives and associate director of Alumni Relations. “We must remember to honor the history, contributions and work of Latinx-identifying individuals all year long; because this history is Colorado history.”
UNC’s celebration kicks off at the CCCC on Sept.15 with the following events through the month of October:
Latinx Heritage Month Kickoff Celebration
Wednesday, Sept. 15, 1:30-3:30 p.m,. at the CCCC
Join the CCCC for UNC’s Latinx Heritage Month Kickoff Celebration. Meet the staff, celebrate culture and connect with student organizations. Enjoy free food, music and entertainment.
Mexican Independence Car Show
Saturday, Sept. 17, noon to 5 p.m., at the CCCC
More than 15 food vendors, taco trucks, and a car show to bring the community together.
Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority Inc. Zeta Chai Chapter
Thursday, Sept. 29, 3 p.m., Harrison. Hall Bear Den
Join the Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority Inc. Zeta Chai Chapter for a series of conversations with staff from the DREAmer Engagement Program about the challenges of immigration, lived experiences of Latinx immigrants and the possibilities that we all can foster together for the future.
FAFSA Night
Wednesday, Oct. 5, 5-6:30 p.m. at the CCCC
The CCCC is hosting a FAFSA night where counselors will be available to help fill
out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form or answer questions.
Keynote Speaker, Juana Bordas
Wednesday, Oct. 12, 5:30-7- p.m, University Center Panorama Room
Multi-award-winning writer and activist Juana Bordas will be on campus sharing her perspectives on the complexity associated with Latinidad and multiple intersecting identities.
UNC’s Latinx Heritage Tailgate and Football Game
Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Watch the UNC Bears as they take on Montana State. There will be free drinks, swag, Latinx inspired music and fun from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by the football game from 1-4 p.m.
For more information about Latinx Heritage Month events, contact the CCCC at chavezcenter@unco.edu.
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