Latinx Heritage Month celebration gets underway at UW-Eau Claire

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire will host several events in September and October in recognition of Latinx Heritage Month, a monthlong celebration of the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America.

The national Latinx Heritage Month is Sept. 15-Oct. 15.

The monthlong celebration begins on Sept. 15 because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.

“Throughout the month, we will host events that aim to recognize and celebrate the history, culture, heritage and many contributions of the Latinx community,” says Dang Yang, director of UW-Eau Claire’s Office of Multicultural Affairs. “It will be a time of celebration, but also an opportunity to help build awareness and understanding of the many complex issues that are important to the Latinx community.”

UW-Eau Claire will kick off its 2021 Latinx Heritage Month by hosting a private event Sept. 16 celebrating the opening of the Latinx Cultural Center on campus.

Latinx Heritage Month events at UW-Eau Claire that are open to the public include:

• “Latinx & LGBTQ+,” a series of short films that highlight different aspects of the intersectionality between the Latina and the LGBTQ+ community. The films will screen from 4-5:30 p.m. Sept. 22 in Woodland Theater in Davies Center.
• “Loteria,” a night of playing the fun and competitive game of Loteria. Game night will run from 4-6 p.m. Sept. 29 in Room 801 of Hibbard Hall.
• “Blugold Dialogue,” a speaker series that focuses on contemporary equity, diversity and inclusion topics, stories and ideas. Dr. Sunem Beaton-Garcia, president of Chippewa Valley Technical College, will be the speaker. She is the first Latina and first woman president for CVTC. Her presentation will begin at 4 p.m. Oct. 7 in Room 1614 of Centennial Hall.
• “Sabor Latin (Eau)” will be an event featuring food, speakers, awards and performers. The event will run from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 14 in the Dakota Ballroom of Davies Center.
• “A Place to Breathe” will be a virtual panel discussion following the viewing of the documentary. The panelists will include faculty and experts. The documentary will be available for viewing on Oct. 6. The virtual discussion will run from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 21.

For more information, contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs at multicultural@uwec.edu.