9/16/2021

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Hispanic Awareness Heritage Month

Hispanic culture continues to have a profound effect on food, music, science, sports, politics, fashion, the arts and much more in the United States. Hispanic Heritage Month, which spans from September 15 -October 15,  is a time to honor and celebrate the historic background, culture, heritage, and many influences of the Hispanic community in the United States. Join UIU over the next month as we celebrate and commemorate the contributions of Hispanics to culture both locally and globally.

In September 1968, Congress authorized National Hispanic Heritage Week, observed during the week that included Sept. 15 and Sept. 16. Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is independence anniversary of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence soon after on Sept. 16 and 18.

The observance was expanded in 1989 by Congress to a month-long celebration (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15). The United States celebrates the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

Upper Iowa University is commemorating 2021 Hispanic Heritage Month with a series of events for students, faculty, staff and alumni. Fayette Campus is invited to attend the International Coffee (and Dessert) Hour at 3 p.m. Thursday, September 16. A thank you to student, Alexa Salgado, and  Career Development specialist Nikki Kuhn, for sharing their family recipes.

Saul Flores

Saul Flores is the featured speaker at 7 p.m. Monday, October 4, in the Student Center ballrooms. Flores walked 5,328 miles through 10 countries to document how grueling and dangerous the journey of immigrants to the United States can be and to raise money for an elementary school in Atencingo, Mexico. The story of his journey, accompanied by a series of photographs, capture the essence of the people, communities, and cultures he encountered along the way.

UIU will host additional guests consisting of alumni, students, faculty and prominent speakers during the monthlong event.

Please check the full Hispanic Heritage Month schedule and list of resources at https://uiu.edu/hhm/. Check back frequently, as the site will continue to be updated with new events and information, including a Hispanic Heritage Stories video featuring staff and students next week. All are welcome to celebrate!