Helping students find ways to learn about their own cultures, along with other cultures within the Hispanic/Latinx community, brings an important sense of belonging at UofL, says Hispanic, Latinx & Indigenous Initiative (HLII) director Mónica Negrón.
As National Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month kicks off Sept.15, the Cardinal Community, led by HLII and partners, is celebrating the diversity of the campus population through a series of events scheduled throughout the month.
“We love the work we do to empower our students to live their authentic selves while exploring their own Latinidad. We are excited for this month of visibility and celebration, and we are dedicated to celebrating our culture throughout the entire year while we continue working towards an inclusive and welcoming campus,” Negrón said.
Celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year, UofL’s HLII office is located within the Cultural Center and presents heritage and identity events in an effort to uplift the Hispanic/Latinx culture represented on campus by curating educational and celebratory opportunities in which students and the community can engage. The initiative also works year-round to promote Hispanic, Latinx & Indigenous student success through campus and community engagement, student coaching, leadership development and cultural programming and events.
Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is observed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, in line with the day of independence for various Latin American countries. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua all celebrate their day of independence on Sept. 15. Mexico and Chile’s follow within the same week. The national observance was first celebrated for only one week. It became a month-long celebration in 1989.
UofL celebrations begin with HLII’s signature event Sept. 15 at the Speed Art Museum. Other events include a gallery walk at the Cultural and Equity Center, Costuras and Comida and Baila con Migo. The full series of events can be found here.
