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National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 – Oct. 15 each year to honor the impact Latino and Hispanic cultures have on the United States. In recognition and celebration, the University will host a number of events for students.
According to the Smithsonian Institution’s website, the timeframe of this month is significant because many Central American countries celebrate their independence days within these dates, beginning on Sept. 15 with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. By aligning with these independence dates, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the resilience and determination of the Hispanic community.
“It is important for Millersville to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month to recognize and show respect and appreciation for this grand collection of diverse cultures that have contributed to the incredible fabric that makes up the Millersville University community,” said Thomas Tolley, director of intercultural student programs. “The Center for Intercultural Student Engagement‘s programming provides landscapes of opportunity for students of myriad backgrounds to learn and develop a deeper and more meaningful awareness of their peers and greater community. By empowering safe zones for contact and communication we have the opportunity to connect and grow more secure senses of belonging within our university.”
At Millersville University, celebrations are being hosted by the Dr. Rita Smith-Wade-El Center for Intercultural Student Engagement.
Celebrations kicked off with Cafe con Leche on Sept. 18. This event had music, dancing, Cafe Bustelo and sweet Hispanic baked treats.
CISE also hosted “A Movie and a Conversation” featuring the film “Encanto.” This event took place on Oct. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in Room 24 in the Student Memorial Center. Light refreshments were served and dialogue on important themes followed.
“Comida y Comunidad” wraps up the month on Oct. 17. This event is based on several Hispanic traditions of breaking bread and building relationships, and will take place in the SMC’s MPR from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be music, information about some of the leading historic figures in Hispanic history, and more.
Learn more about the Dr. Rita Smith-Wade-El Center for Intercultural Student Engagement, which celebrated a grand re-opening at 4 p.m., Oct. 2, in Room 117 of McNairy Library, here.
