National Hispanic Heritage month was first celebrated in 1989 when former president George H.W. Bush enacted it into law for observation throughout the country. The month spotlights Hispanic Americans’ influence and contributions on American culture, accomplishments and history. It is observed from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 as unique voices and experiences are shared through the celebration.
The university held their annual Hispanic Heritage month flag raising on Sept. 16. University President Jens Frederiksen and Dean of Students Ophelie Rowe- Allen were among those in attendance.
The flag waving on the pole by the German Club features a tree with its leaves being different Hispanic countries flags. The words “Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month” are displayed across the black background of the flag.
“Hispanics and Latinos don’t come from one singular mold, but from different features,” said Jailene Resto, Director of Finance for Undergraduate Student Association. “This month isn’t just celebrating our heritage, but celebrating diversity, as those before us did.”
Barbara J. Lawrence, UNH’s vice president of diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging, said that of the school’s first-year students, 385 identify as Hispanic, Latino and Latin American.
Lawrence said she wanted to make sure freshmen feel included, and asked for support.
“We want you all to continue to support the Myatt Center, and continue the work that speaks to people,” she said.
Gabriel Aliendro,a student at the university, said that when he first came to campus, “I wasn’t sure how I’d fit into this campus, until I met a certain group of students and staff members who helped me get started on this campus.”
He also gave a shout-out to the Latin American Student Associations 2023-2024 executive board members Kimberly and Alana, president and vice president, respectively. The Latin American Student Association’s mission is to “promote awareness of the Latin American culture and lifestyle” and to change common misconceptions of Latin American culture.
Aliendro said that by everyone observing the month, “This will provide a new norm to this campus.”
Latin American Student Association’s vice president Alexander Chacon said “leaving my mother at home alone was very difficult for me, she taught me to be kind, humble and dedicated in everything I do, which is why I decided to partake in the Latin American Student Association my first year.”
The association serves as a safe place for Latin American students and fosters a sense of community within the campus and other organizations.
“Back at home, I had a close-knit group of friends who were all Hispanic, all of similar upbringings, and all with families who fought tooth and nail for their kids to have a better life,” said Chacon. “I hope that during my time here on campus, I can create the same safe space that was made for me at home, because I yearned for a place where I can feel a sense of comfort as a person, which I found.”
“We value our culture,” said Chacon. “I hope that every individual here takes the time this month to honor and celebrate our heritage.”
For more information on what’s going on at the Latin American Student Association, follow them on Instagram (@lasa_unh). The Myatt Center will be hosting more activities this month including a Tres Leches sale, Immigration Insight, Cultural Tapestry, and more.
