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The Sister Jean MPR at the Damen Student Center was buzzing with energy on September 19 as Ramblers gathered to kick off Latine Heritage Month. Hosted by the Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Division of Student Development, the event was a joyful celebration of Latine culture, history, and community.
Observed from September 15 to October 15, Latine Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich cultural heritage of Latine communities and reflect on their significant contributions to American society. With the lively sounds of a mariachi band and the enticing aroma of Latin cuisine filling the air, this was a special occasion for the Latine community at Loyola.
“It was a beautiful celebration of students, faculty, and staff coming together to build community, celebrate, feel the culture, and learn from the different cultures of the Latine Heritage,” said Astrid Beltrán, assistant vice president for Diversity and Student Engagement. “There was intentionality in every detail to display the large Latine diaspora.”
Guests enjoyed a variety of delicious dishes from across the Latine diaspora, such as Colombian empanadas, Venezuelan arepas, and Salvadoran pupusas, while listening to personal stories from Latine students and staff.
“As a first-generation Mexican American student, I loved being able to teach other Ramblers about my culture and getting to share my story with the Loyola community!” said Lizbeth A., a member of Alpha Psi Lambda fraternity, which partnered with the event. “In my speech at the celebration, I shared how my family has had many difficulties throughout the years, but despite all of that, each of my siblings have worked hard to live the best life that they can. By sharing my family’s story, I hope to show students that anything is possible, no matter the age, and to be able to be a role model for future generations to come.”
This celebration set the tone for Latine Heritage Month, offering a space to honor the diverse cultures and stories that make up the Latine community at Loyola.
