Dear Campus Community,
From September 15–October 15, we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. Since 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month has celebrated the extensive history, ongoing contributions, and diverse cultures of Latinx communities in the United States. Latinx peoples are a vital and vibrant part of this country and have been for generations.
This month, I invite you to learn more about the rich diversity of the Latinx experience and engage with events and educational opportunities to deepen your understanding of the Latinx community. These books offer one place to start that journey of discovery:
Finding Latinx by Paola Ramos
In Finding Latinx, Ramos embeds a collection of stories gathered from numerous individuals from the Latinx community, as well as her own story as an author from the community, to delve into how the term “Latinx” is defined.
Living Beyond Borders: Growing Up Mexican in America by Margarita Longoria
This book encapsulates the experiences and pieces of media that multiple authors from the Latinx community have contributed, weaving a narrative that informs and empowers the reader.
Trust by Hernan Diaz
In this Pulitzer-Prize winning historical novel, Diaz explores themes of money, power, class, and the dynamics of relationships.
In addition, there are many celebrations, lectures, and events happening around Tacoma in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. In particular, the Washington State History Museum will host author Monica De La Torre on Sept. 23 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. to discuss her book, Feminista Frequencies, which traces the emergence of Chicano community radio in Eastern Washington in the 1970s.
Celebrations like this remind us that we are stronger together and better when we embrace our diversity. I hope this month gives you the opportunity to explore the culture and accomplishments of the Latinx community here on campus and around the world.
Un saludo,
Lorna Hernandez Jarvis Ph.D. | Vice President of Institutional Equity and Diversity