Music, food, readings, discussions and more in September, October
As Indiana’s first public, comprehensive higher education institution designated as an Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), Indiana University Northwest is proud to host several events and activities to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, 2024).
Throughout the month, IU Northwest will host multiple events on campus representing the wide range of Latin American culture and diaspora.
Hispanic Heritage Month Activities
September 18 • IU Northwest Kick-Off Event
Anderson Library Courtyard • 3:30-6 p.m.
Kick-off Hispanic Heritage Month at IU Northwest with a vibrant celebration of Latino culture, featuring live music by Latin Satin Soul and a variety of free Latin American foods.
While you’re here, explore campus resources and clubs that support our students. Plus, enjoy the wonder of Street Magician Norman Basile, as seen on WGN’s Daytime Chicago, who will be mingling with the crowd and showcasing his incredible tricks.
Come celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and experience the magic IU Northwest has to offer!
September 26 • 20th Anniversary: Diversity Landmark Wall of Fame
Moraine Student Center • 1-2 p.m.
As part of Hispanic Heritage Month activities, join us as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Diversity Landmark Wall of Fame, arguably the most sustainable and inclusive diversity initiative in our institution’s history.
The ceremony will recognize our shared values related to diversity and celebrate the contributions of various students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members who have contributed to the Landmark Wall of Fame over the two decades.
Refreshments will be served.
RSVP: Landmark Wall of Fame Celebration
October 2 • Sabor y Color: Sip, Paint, and Celebrate
Moraine Student Center • Two sessions offered: 1 & 3 p.m.
Join us for mocktails at our Sip and Paint event celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. The event has two sessions: 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Please RSVP, as seating is limited. Presented by ALMA, LaCAP, and Pi Lambda Chi Sorority Inc.
RSVP: 1 pm Session - Sabor y Color
RSVP: 3 pm Session - Sabor y Color
October 10 • The Story of Rita Patiño Quintero: Reading & Discussion
Bergland Auditorium, Savannah Center • 1 p.m.
Attend a reading and discussion with IU Northwest English Professor, Dr. Cecy Villarruel, about the Indigenous Mexican woman who got lost in Kansas and was forced to spend 12 years in a psychiatric institution because nobody understood her language or culture. Refreshments will be served.
RSVP: Story of Rita Patiño Quintero
October 14-31 • Dia de Los Muertos Ofrenda
Moraine Student Center
An ofrenda, sponsored by IU Northwest Latinx Community Advancement Program (LaCAP), will be displayed in part for Hispanic Heritage Month and leading up to Dia de los Muertos.
The ofrenda will educate students, faculty and staff on the various components and symbolisms of ofrendas; a cultural tradition typically seen in Mexico. We encourage the community to add photos to remember and honor passed loved ones, any time between October 14-31.
Please reach out to Symphony Raudry at sraudry@iu.edu or 219-981-5698 with any questions.
RSVP: Dia de Los Muertos Ofrenda
October 15 • Film Showing: Street Heroines
Anderson Library Conference Center, room 105 • 1 p.m.
Join us for a screening of “Street Heroines,” an award-winning documentary that explores the courage and creativity of Latina graffiti and street artists, women who create art in the name of equality and the celebration of cultural identity.
Refreshments will be served.
RSVP: Film Showing: Street Heroines
MONTH-LONG ACTIVITIES
Sept. 18 to Oct. 15 • Display Cases
Anderson Library Conference Center
The Story of Consuelo Ornelas-Garcia, Northwest Indiana’s First Known Hispanic Nurse
(Location: 2nd floor)
Discover more about Consuelo Ornelas-Garcia, Northwest Indiana’s first known Hispanic nurse. She was an alumnus of William Wirt School and St. Mary Mercy Hospital, School of Nursing, and was employed at U.S. Steel for 32 years, rising to the rank of head nurse in their medical department. Learn about her inspiring legacy and celebrate the trailblazing impact she made in healthcare by diving into her story.
The Story of Jesse Villapando, founder of Latino Historical Society of Northwest Indiana
(Location: 1st floor)
Discover the compelling story of Jesse Villapando (1932-1999), a Korean War Marine, a dedicated steelworker for 35 years and a key member of United Steelworkers Local 1010.
Explore his contributions through his education at Calumet College of St. Joseph and Indiana University Northwest, his involvement with local groups, like the Jaycees, and his role in founding the Latino Historical Society of Northwest Indiana.
