Hispanic Heritage Month is a Time for Community

By Hermes Falcon, senior journalism & sociology major

Everyone brings something unique when they step onto a college campus—and it’s not just loads of boxes on move-in day. Students bring their culture—their identity—with them. Diversity happens, and celebrating our unique differences matter, which is why Bradley University’s campus comes to life during Hispanic Heritage Month.

When I first came to Bradley, I wondered how I would find my place in a city so unlike my hometown. Born and raised in Miami to two Cuban parents, the change in scenery was shocking. From palm trees to cloudy skies, from home-cooked meals to on-campus dining. I was worried I would lose my identity during my four years attending Bradley.

I admit I was quick to judge, unsure how a campus with predominantly white students would be so accepting of my identity. But after four years on campus, I’ve found a deeper connection with my Cuban roots, deeper than before I arrived. Being on campus has made me appreciate my heritage, and knowing that others want to learn about my culture makes me feel proud of my intersecting identities.

Every year, from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic and Latinx individuals in the U.S. come together to celebrate their history, culture and contributions to society. Hispanic Heritage Month has an unconventional start and end date, but just like beloved Hispanic traditions, there’s history in that, too.

Many Latin American countries gained their independence on Sept. 15, such as Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Other countries like Mexico, Chile and Belize also gained their independence during the month of September, so the celebration starts mid-month and extends into October. 

Organizations on campus are working together to make this Hispanic Heritage Month memorable for all students. Senior Gigi Prado, middle school math education major and president of the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS), said she joined ALAS as a freshman as a way to connect with other Hispanic and Latinx students on campus. 

“When I first came in as a freshman, I was very awkward and quiet but getting involved in ALAS has helped me become more confident and present myself in a different way,” she explained. “Especially on a campus like this, there aren’t a lot of Hispanic students, so being able to stick with the upperclassmen is always super welcoming.”

ALAS kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with “Levanta Tu Bandera” (Raise Your Flag), where students gathered in Alumni Quad, hoisting12 flags up high as the national anthem played. On Oct. 4, the six major Hispanic clubs and organizations on campus came together to seize the night, pulling out all the stops. Students enjoyed rich, culture-based meals, tried their luck on the mechanical bull and enjoyed traditional Hispanic music provided by a “banda,” a group of musicians who kept the joy of the night alive with music. 

To wrap up Hispanic Heritage Month, ALAS will be hosting a Latinx banquet where an alum will talk to students about post-grad life as a Latino, and provide guidance for Hispanic and Latinx students who are unsure of their next steps after graduation. These exciting, multi-layered events happening on campus would not be possible without passionate students like Prado.

“Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month gives us an excuse to be together in the same room, come together as one big group and meet people in the community you might have not known before,” said Prado.

There is always room to grow and ways to learn about other cultures here at Bradley, and taking the first step is easy thanks to clubs like ALAS and people like Gigi Prado.

Being on a campus that encourages students to make the grounds their home connects people and establishes connections with people you might not have met in any other scenario. There are only a few days left until the end of Hispanic Heritage Month, but ALAS aims to make everyday count. Wave your flag proudly—Bradley University is home to everybody.

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