Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a national recognition of the culture, contributions and heritage of Hispanic Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988.

It is a long-standing tradition at Oakland University to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month during the month of September to celebrate the history, politics and culture of Hispanic people, locally and globally.

HHM Photos HHM Videos

Events

2025 Hispanic Heritage Month Events

Monday, September 15 | Lunes 15 de Septiembre
Opening Ceremony
Strength Through Struggle: Latinx Voices Leading in the Face of Opposition
Panel discussion with members from Latinx organizations such as the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative to discuss how they are continuing their organizations’ mission in a climate that is actively pushing back against them.
Oakland Center, Ambassador Rooms | 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m.

Friday, September 19 | Viernes 19 de Septiembre
Festival del Barrio
Led by Latinx student organizations, this event is aimed to educate OU Students about each of the countries celebrated during Hispanic Heritage Month! It is a celebration of the rich culture our Latinx students identify with.
Elliott Tower | 4 - 6 p.m.

Saturday, September 27 | Sábado 27 de Septiembre
Community Service Project at Hispanic Outreach Center
Work alongside Hispanic Outreach Center students and mentors to prepare their facility and grounds for the fall. Lunch provided to those who sign up: Hispanic Outreach Center Volunteer Sign-Up Form!
Meet at the Hispanic Outreach Center, 76 Williams, Pontiac, MI | 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Wednesday, October 1 | Miércoles 1 de Octubre
Loteria Night (Mexican Bingo)
Come and enjoy traditional Mexican pastries and win prizes by playing the traditional Mexican game!
Oak View Hall, Main Lobby | 7 p.m.
Sponsored by University Housing, Residence Life Association

Friday, October 3 | Viernes 3 de Octubre
Sabor y Comunidad: A Hispanic Heritage Month Carne Asada
Join us for Sabor y Comunidad, a festive carne asada cookout celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at Oakland University! Enjoy delicious grilled food, music, games, and great company as we honor Latinx culture and community. Come connect, relax, and celebrate the rich flavors and traditions that bring us together.
Elliott Tower | 5:30 - 8 p.m.
Sponsored by HALO, SHPE

Monday, October 13 | Lunes 13 de Octubre
Hispanic Heritage Month Book Club
Featured book: Catalina by Karla Cornejo Villavicencio
Join us as we celebrate Hispanic and Latinx authors! Though we will be highlighting the featured work of Karla Cornejo Villavicencio, reading the book is not required to attend this event. We will provide an opportunity for folks to share their favorite Hispanic and Latinx authors and/or works.
Oakland Center, Rooms 128 - 130 | 5:30 p.m.
Sponsored by HALO

Tuesday, October 14 | Martes 14 de Octubre
Screening of the Documentary Las Sufragistas (2012)
The Sufragettes (Dir. Anna Cruz) chronicles Eufrosina Cruz Mendoza's struggle to be allowed to vote and to be a candidate for the Head of Municipality of her community in Santa Maria Quiegolani in the State of Oaxaca. Her story is indicative of present day struggles for women throughout Central America to gain and retain the right to vote.
Film screening will be followed by a round table with representatives from Modern Languages, Women and Gender Studies, Film Studies.
Oakland Center, The Habitat | Noon
Sponsored by Department of Modern Languages, Women and Gender Studies, Film Studies

Wednesday, October 15 | Miércoles 15 de Octubre
Closing Ceremony
Join us as we close out Hispanic Heritage Month at Oakland University.
Oakland Center, Gold Rooms B & C | 12 – 1 p.m.