Sept. 21, 2023
Latinx Heritage Month takes place nationally from September 15 to October 15 to celebrate the achievements, history and contributions of the Latine community. Latines drive prosperity, power and progress, and we at Trotter Multicultural Center want to make sure our community observes and celebrates this month.
What we currently know as Latinx Heritage Month began in 1968 as “Hispanic Heritage Week” under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to cover a 30-day period, from September 15 to October 15. September 15 is a significant date for this observance because it is the independence day of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico celebrates their independence day on September 16 and Chile on September 18. Indigenous Peoples' Day is also observed within this 30-day time period.
Did you know?
- There are 62 million Latines in the United States
- Latines represent 25% of the Gen Z population
- Latines start over 80% of new businesses in the U.S.
- Latine enrollment in colleges and universities increased 41% from 2010 to 2021
Our friends at the Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs (MESA) have helped to coordinate this year’s Latinx Heritage Month efforts at the University of Michigan. The theme, “Aquí Estamos,” serves as a powerful affirmation of the presence and resilience of the Latinx community at the University and in the U.S.
This year’s celebration aims to acknowledge and celebrate the unique intersections of identities, such as LGBTQ+, Afro-Latinx, indigenous, people with disabilities and more. Join in on events throughout the month to celebrate the beautiful diversity within the Latine community.
Upcoming Events
Elevating Educators: A Conversation with Marsal Alumni Award Winners
September 22 | 2:30-4 p.m. | School of Education, Brownlee Room 2327
September 27 | 6:30 p.m. | Rackham West Conference Room
Teach for America CEO Coming to U-M
September 28 | 2-3 p.m. | Trotter Basement Multipurpose Room 3
October 2 | 6 p.m. | Location TBA
October 4 | 7-8:30 p.m. | Weiser Hall 455
Día de Los Muertos Community Altar Opening
October 5 | 6 p.m. | East Quad Atrium Hallway
Tres Leches Cake Sale
October 6 | 10 a.m. | Location TBA
October 6 | 6-9 p.m. | Michigan League, Vandenberg Room
LHM x Spectrum Event
October 7 | Time TBA | Trotter Multicultural Center
Latinx Heritage Month Closing Ceremony
October 12 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Rogel Ballroom, Michigan Union