University Celebrates Latine Heritage Month with a Dynamic Series of Events

Syracuse University is proud to announce its vibrant lineup of events celebrating Latine Heritage Month from Friday, Sept. 15 to Sunday, Oct. 15. This annual celebration, which honors the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Latine community, will feature a diverse range of activities that are sure to engage and enlighten participants.

“This year’s Latine Heritage Month celebrations are hosted by Syracuse University’s Multicultural Affairs in collaboration with numerous University partners and community organizations, which include the LGBTQ Resource Center, La Casita Cultural Center, Office of Cultural Engagement for the Hispanic Community, Center for International Services, Orange After Dark, Barnes Center at The Arch, Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Latine student organizations such as Las Naranjas,” says Breana Nieves Vergara, assistant director in Multicultural Affairs and co-chair of the Latine Heritage Month planning committee. “These events provide an opportunity for our campus and the broader community to come together, learn and celebrate the diverse and rich culture of the Latine community, inclusive of Americans whose ancestry can be traced to more than 20 Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America, including Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean. Latine Heritage Month aims to promote the history of solidarity with and intersectionality across identities and cultures. To celebrate Latine, Latinx, Latino, Latina and Hispanic heritage is to celebrate American culture.”

The Latine Heritage Month celebration kicks off with an information fair and opening celebration on Friday, Sept. 15, in the Schine Student Center atrium. These events will set the stage for a monthlong journey through Latine culture, featuring performances, speakers, discussions, sporting events and more.

One of the most anticipated events of the month is the Fiesta Latina, scheduled for Friday, Oct. 6. The event features Latine cuisine and live entertainment from Trio Los Claveles, Raices Dance Troupe and the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations.

Sports enthusiasts won’t want to miss the annual Torneo de Fútbol, where friendly competition and community spirit will be on full display. Teams can register now through Wednesday, Sept. 13. All are invited to the tournament on Saturday, Sept. 16.

As part of the festivities, the Latine Heritage Month planning committee is once again partnering with the LGBTQ Resource Center to host a joint commemorative speaker. The Latine Heritage Month and LGBTQ+ History Month Potash Collaborative Keynote will feature acclaimed drag performer, recently featured on RuPaul’s Drag Race season 15, Salina EsTitties, who will deliver a drag performance and keynote remarks revolving around her queer and Latine identities, as well as leave time for audience Q&A.

For more information about the Latine Heritage Month celebration and a complete schedule of events, please visit the University’s events calendar.

Written by Kalaya Sibley G’24 graduate assistant in Student Experience Communications