For a few weeks each fall, 91茄子 (SJC) comes alive with music, food, art and traditions as students, employees and community members celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM).
The Team that Makes it Possible
From lively gatherings and cultural activities to opportunities for education and connection, a variety of events are designed to engage people of different ages, backgrounds and interests.
Behind the celebrations is the Herencia Latina Center team, who work to create engaging experiences. Organizing a successful Hispanic Heritage Month celebration takes planning, teamwork and a commitment to creating meaningful experiences for the community.
By highlighting different aspects of Hispanic culture each year, the team encourages people to explore traditions, learn from one another and build meaningful connections.
“We really want Hispanic Heritage Month to feel welcoming and inclusive and to bring people together through culture, education and shared experience,” said the Director of Herencia Latina Center and ENLACE, Arely Caro.
For many participants, these events offer more than entertainment. They provide a sense of belonging, an opportunity to celebrate personal heritage and a welcoming space to experience cultures beyond their own.
How HHM Creates a Sense of Belonging
Activities have included Fiesta at Sunset, a lowrider car show, Lotería, Zumba, art activities and cultural displays. Each event offers a different way to experience Hispanic and Latino traditions.
By combining entertainment with cultural education, the Herencia Latina Center team helps create an environment where people can celebrate Hispanic heritage while gaining a greater appreciation for the experiences and traditions that shape the community.
For students, Hispanic Heritage Month can play an important role in creating connections.
“I attend HHM events because it makes me feel included here on campus,” Josh Camacho said.
For students who are looking for community, cultural celebrations can offer a welcoming place to participate and feel connected.
Sharing Traditions Across Generations
For other attendees, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to honor their roots while sharing meaningful traditions with the broader community.
Silvia Stewart attends HHM events to celebrate her culture, meet people and share traditions with others. Paulina Castañeda also values the opportunity to honor her heritage while bringing people together.
For Zaira Rivera, one of the most rewarding parts of the work is seeing families take part in the festivities and connect with the activities.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to see families show genuine interest and enjoy the events,” Rivera said. “It makes me feel like I’ve done my part.”
Their perspectives highlight how cultural celebrations can connect generations, strengthen community relationships and keep traditions visible and meaningful.
Looking Ahead to Next Year’s HHM
As this year’s celebrations come to a close, the community can look forward to another opportunity to come together next fall.
Want to be part of next year’s celebration?
Stay connected with the Herencia Latina Center for updates on upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month events, cultural activities and opportunities to celebrate Hispanic and Latino heritage. Whether you attend every year or plan to join for the first time, there will be more opportunities to connect, learn and celebrate together.
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