Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Driving Prosperity, Power and Progress

10/4/2023

As September rolls in, so does the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM), a time dedicated to recognizing the rich history, culture and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Each year, Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) observes National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. The college celebrates and honors the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Joining the nation in commemorating this significant month, LIT is spotlighting the accomplishments of our students and staff accomplishments and sharing their stories.  

One of the primary goals of Hispanic Heritage Month is to acknowledge the vast contributions that Hispanic and Latino people have made throughout history in various fields, including art, music, science, politics and more.  

"By recognizing and celebrating HHM, we promote a sense of pride and belonging among Hispanic and Latino students, faculty and staff on our campus,” Karina Salgado Estrada, Academic Advisor/Recruiter. 

"Celebrating HHM at LIT promotes education, empowerment, community and cultural exchange,” said Ana Pereda, Executive Director of Workforce. “It enriches the university experience for all members of the campus community and contributes to a more culturally aware and interconnected society." 

LIT had an event scheduled every week to commemorate HHM, including providing Elena’s Mexican Food to over 350 students and handing out t-shirts. 

“The students seemed to enjoy the food, t-shirts, and Mexican music,” said Kim Sala, Student Engagement and Retention Manager. “In planning these events, our goal is to foster a sense of unity and solidarity among the diverse student body. It's a reminder that strength as an educational institution lies in our ability to embrace and respect the numerous cultures and backgrounds that make up our community.” 

Other events included handing out Mexican pastries, snacks, candy and a Loteria game in the quad. To wrap up the month, a Fiesta in the Quad featuring authentic Mexican dancers from Mexico, food trucks and music on October 10 from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.  

“These activities were created to engage and educate the entire campus community, providing opportunities for students to learn about the diversity within Hispanic and Latino culture and how these communities have influenced and shaped us all,” said Salgado Estrada. 

By celebrating HHM, in a world that often emphasizes differences, the college hopes to highlight the power of cultural appreciation and respect. LIT not only pays homage to the contributions of these groups but also takes an important step toward building a more inclusive campus environment. 

"We hope students will feel acknowledged--they're not just a number in a school, we care about their roots as well,” said Tasha Morales, Associate Vice President of Student Services. “We are giving anyone who is multi-cultured a sense of validation. Your ancestry is valid, your history is valid, your roots are valid, you are seen."