SXU Celebrates Latinx Heritage Month
The Saint Xavier University (SXU) community is celebrating Latinx Heritage Month throughout September and October with a variety of events, conversations, learning opportunities, and more.
Latinx Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The observation began in 1968 as a week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period beginning September 15. September 15 is significant as it celebrates the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
SXU is proud to be recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) since 2014 and provide opportunities for growth to Hispanic students while celebrating their culture and tradition with the whole SXU community. Students have the opportunity to participate in building SXU's HSI identity and history through a variety of academic, cultural, leadership and other professional organizations, including Unidos, Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA), and Sin Límites.
Please join us throughout September and October to learn, grow and celebrate!
September
Latinx Authors and Films
All month long, the SXU community can visit the Robert and Mary Rita Murphy Stump Library in person or online to view a curated collection of books, films, documentaries, and information on cultural centers and museums around Chicago that celebrate the work and contributions of Latinx communities.
Latinx Inspired Food in the Diner
Every Thursday during Hispanic Heritage Month, the SXU dinner will offer a lunch option inspired by Latinx culture.
Grito Contest – Monday, September 16
Who has the best Mexican grito (yell)? Join us at noon at Mary's Circle to find out!
Beginning-of-the-Year Mass and Scholars Sin Límites Induction – Friday, September 20
Join us at McDonough Chapel at 7 p.m. for the beginning-of-the-year Spanish Mass for students, families and the SXU community.
"For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts" Book Cub Meeting I – Thursday, September 26
Join us for in the Butler Reception Room at noon for an SXU community book club discussion of Prizca Dorka's book.
Horchata and Bachata – Thursday, September 26
Join us at 1:30 p.m. in the Wiseman Student Lounge to drink horchata, mingle, and dance Bachata with Unidos!
Fiesta de la Familia – Friday, September 27
Gather with SXU students and their families for a lively fiesta outside the Mercy Ministry Center at 4:30 p.m.
October
Latinx Grad Panel – Tuesday, October 1
Join Unidos at noon in WAC Room S-101 for a Latinx grad panel. Panelists will share their tips and experiences on seeking internships and employment and discuss different resources available within the University.
Day of the Dead Altar Building – Tuesday, October 1
Students are invited to help build the Day of the Dead ofrenda outside of the Butler Reception Room at 3 p.m.
National Museum of Mexican Art Outing – Sunday, October 6
Students will visit the National Museum of Mexican Art. Transportation will be provided.
Comadreando Con Conchas - Tuesday, October 8
Join us in the Wiseman Student Lounge from 2 to 3 p.m. to share your experiences at SXU – conchas and chisme included!
Estrellas de Oro Banquet - Friday, October 11
Join us at 5 p.m. in the Butler Reception Room to celebrate SXU’s student, faculty and staff estrellas.
Lunch-and-Learn – Monday, October 15
The Office of Inclusive Excellence will present a virtual lunch-and-learn at noon with Veronica Arreola, head of Hispanic-Serving Institutions at University of Illinois Chicago.
"For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts" Book Cub Meeting II – Thursday, October 14
Join us for in the Butler Reception Room at noon for an SXU community book club discussion of Prizca Dorka's book.
Dia de Los Muertos Experience – Friday October 25
Students, staff and faculty are invited to the Day of the Dead Experience to enjoy a special evening of music, stories, remembrance, food, and celebration. Join us at 5 p.m. in McGuire Hall and the Butler Reception Room.
Latine Fest – Wednesday, October 30
Join us at 5 p.m. in the Butler Reception Room to celebrate the history and culture of the Hispanic community. Come out for tables exhibiting different Hispanic foods, clothing and cultures. There will also be a special performance.