Wrapping up Hispanic Heritage Month with two more events, Raíces provides students on campus with opportunities to celebrate Latino culture now, as well as throughout the rest of the year. 

Hispanic Heritage Month takes place from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This month sheds light on the histories and contributions of Hispanic groups. This celebration acknowledges the influence of Hispanic culture to the nation’s achievements, culture, and history

Hispanic Heritage Month began in the middle of September on the independence days of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on Sept. 15 and Mexico, which is on Sept. 16. 

While not limited to the countries listed, the month holds importance in the Latino community. 

“[Hispanic] Cultural Heritage Month is one way to enjoy and experiment with that extra sense of belonging to our roots.” second-year student and Raíces volunteer Honey Guzman said “It is the time to show the perseverance, resilience, and determination of those who came before us.” 

Guzman highlighted her personal experience as a daughter of immigrants and how Latin Heritage Month is a time when she and others get the chance to freely celebrate their family origins. She also expressed her cultural connection at City College through the Raíces program.

“We celebrate our roots and those who planted them here, those who came first and confronted a different language, a different way of living, with nothing but their desire to succeed and to provide their families for  a better future.”

Raíces, a student empowerment program at City College that centers Latiné students, is hosting one more event in celebration of this national month. 

Noche de Fútbol, a men’s soccer game, will take place on Oct. 15 with a performance at halftime in collaboration with the athletics department and men’s soccer team. 

This event is at 7 p.m. and will be held at La Playa Stadium. City College’s men’s soccer team will be going against Allan Hancock along with a Ballet Folklorico performance by Raíces de mi Tierra during the half-time break. 

Raices holds events year round celebrating Latine heritages for students and community members to take part in.

Outside of City College, Santa Barbara’s public library is holding a special event including STEAM activities inspired by Latin-American culture and history which will take place on Oct. 15 at McKinley Elementary School. There are opportunities to make mini Loteria flower pots inspired by the popular Mexican board game.

On Nov. 9, a storytime and a performance from Oaxacreations will take place at the Michael Towbes Library Plaza. With colorful oversize puppets, and dancers there are several opportunities to celebrate Latine heritage. Make a flower crown, write a love letter, and browse handmade items for sale from entrepreneurs of all ages.

To celebrate the month on your own time, you can learn a traditional dance as dancing serves as a central part of community events and celebrations for Hispanic and Latine communities to showcase diversity.