Latino Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th to October 15th.
The celebration of Latino Heritage Month is a moment that should not be missed to acknowledge the rich traditions, history, and cultural contributions of Latin American communities.
This year, Be The Change (BTC) and the Latin American Student Association (LASA) collaborated to host a variety of events including making papel picado, playing Loteria (a traditional card game), and playing musical chairs and a trivia Kahoot in classes.
Additionally, they hung up posters about historical facts and influential Latino people.
“Something I think people should start recognizing a little more about Latino culture is how warm and welcoming people are in Latin American countries,” LASA president Sofia LeGallo said.
“That’s something I love every time I go to Brazil and I feel like people don’t realize it until they get to really know someone from the culture.”
Latino Heritage Month is a time full of celebration and enjoyment.
“This month is good to remember the history, learn about people that influenced the culture [and] dances, but also enjoy the food, the music, and spend time with your family,” LeGallo said.
According to LeGallo, celebrating traditions is the best way to celebrate this month.
“Something our students should know more about Latino culture is the history, important people, important dates, and why we celebrate the things we celebrate in the United States like Cinco de Mayo, Mexican Independence Day, [and] Dia de Los Muertos,” senior Vincent Bueno said.
This month is a great occasion for students to celebrate and connect with loved ones that maybe they don’t get to see as often.
“In my family, during this month we spend time together and celebrate our traditions, we make traditional foods, listen to music, and use the time to see family members that we don’t usually see to celebrate together,” said Bueno.
As emphasized by LeGallo and Bueno, the Latino culture at its core is characterized by love and openness; hence this month is the perfect time to review common values and learn the background of the numerous cultures which form the Latino community.
From eating to dancing to spending good time with family, there are many ways to keep the Latino culture alive.
Understanding and getting acquainted with the history, figures and customs that have shaped the culture of the Latino community are ways to promote the idea of the community’s members following during this month and all year round.