Fresno City College hosted a vibrant celebration on Sept.17 in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated from Sept.15 to Oct.15. The event featured traditional foods like tacos and live mariachi performances. Attendees also enjoyed poetry readings that reflected on the rich tapestry of Hispanic American history, emphasizing themes of identity, resilience, and community.
Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 as a weeklong celebration under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was later expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. It recognizes the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino individuals in the United States, reflecting the diverse background and experiences of millions of Americans.
Through sharing personal stories and cultural expression, students and organizers alike emphasized the importance of this month in fostering understanding and appreciation of Hispanic cultures within the broader community.
For students like Rosario, a sociology major whose parents came from Mexico, Hispanic Heritage Month is deeply personal.
“It’s part of my culture; it’s really important to me,” Rosario said.
Rosario believes the celebration serves as a valuable opportunity for students from different backgrounds to gain insights into Hispanic traditions.
“People from other cultures can get a point of view from our culture,” Rosario added.
Eli Bucio, a child development major, agreed and highlighted how cultural traditions bring people together.
“What Hispanic Heritage Month means to me is the traditions and cultures that we have and our background,”Bucio said.
He noted that celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month allows for richer interactions among students, fostering a sense of community.
“It gives taste and new experiences to people who aren’t Hispanic,” Bucio remarked.
Sadie Grantham, the senior program specialist at FCC and one of the organizers of the event, highlighted the celebration’s role in promoting cultural awareness.
“Hispanic Heritage Month acknowledges the impact the Hispanic and Latinx community has had historically, artistically, and culturally in the United States,” Grantham explained.
Grantham emphasized that the event not only raises awareness but also provides students with opportunities to experience the arts and traditions of Hispanic cultures firsthand.
“It allows students to increase their cultural competency through learning and hearing different parts of culture,” Grantham said.
The celebration at FCC provides opportunities for inclusivity and understanding, aligning with the college’s efforts to promote diversity and cultural dialogue. Students expressed that FCC acknowledging Hispanic heritage month honors their culture but also enhances their appreciation for the greater diverse community.
