Hispanic/Latinx/e Heritage Month 2025 Events

As part of the Diversity Center's Mission to create an inclusive campus environment, we host cultural/heritage months and awareness weeks. While the month and events have a culture or identity associated with them, all events for the month are open to all students. 

In alignment with our mission to foster a supportive environment for all students, the UIS Diversity Center values and encourages individuals of all backgrounds and identities to engage with our programs and initiatives.

September 15 (Mon)

HLHM Flag Raising
Kick off Hispanic/Latinx/e Heritage Month with a ceremonial flag raising to honor and celebrate Latinx/e culture and identity. This symbolic event sets the tone for a month of reflection, celebration, and recognition of contributions across campus and beyond.
Location: Legacy Courtyard | Time: 6pm to 8pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers and La Familia RSOs

Chicanas Book Club and Virtual Watch Party
Join in a thoughtful virtual discussion centered on works by and about Chicanas, highlighting themes of identity, culture, and resilience. The book club provides a space to uplift Latina voices and engage in meaningful dialogue about literature, history, and social issues. Check it out through the I-share or Download it online via the UIS databases. At the end of the month watch the ECCE talk where we Brought the author to campus.
Location: Virtual at your own pace | Time: N/A | Sponsors: Diversity Centers, Brookens Library

September 18 (Thurs)

3 Minute Hug Film Screening
A powerful short film screening that captures the emotional reunions between families separated by the U.S.–Mexico border. Following the screening, participants are invited to reflect on the impact of immigration policy and the resilience of family bonds.
Location: Brookens Auditorium | Time: 6pm to 7pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers, Immigration Project

September 24 (Wed)

The Power of Latinidad in a Fractured World
A conversation exploring Latinidad and the role of Latinx/e identity in today’s complex social and political landscape. This dialogue challenges participants to think critically about culture, unity, and the future of Latinx/e influence.
Location: Brookens Auditorium | Time: 6pm to 7pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers, ECCE, Student Life

Mal de Ojo Bracelet Making
Hands-on workshop to learn the cultural tradition of creating bracelets to ward off “mal de ojo” (the evil eye). Students will explore the meaning behind this folk belief while crafting their own bracelets to take home.
Location: Student Union SLC | Time: 6pm to 8pm | Sponsors: Gamma Phi Omega

September 25 (Thurs)

H/LGBTEA
A community dialogue and social space celebrating the intersection of Latinx/e and LGBTQIA+ identities. This program centers joy, identity, and belonging over tea and conversation.
Location: Diversity Centers (SLB 22) | Time: 4pm to 6pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers (Gender and Sexuality Student Services)

October 2 (Thurs)

Pages of Pride
An event highlighting Latinx/e authors and literature that celebrate queer and Latinx/e voices. Participants will engage with stories that inspire pride, resilience, and cultural understanding.
Location: Diversity Centers (SLB 22) | Time: 4pm to 6pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers (Gender and Sexuality Student Services)

October 3 (Fri)

Feminist Friday: Mujeres Importantes
A session honoring influential Latina women who have made significant contributions to culture, history, and social movements. This event uplifts their stories and inspires participants to continue their legacies of leadership and change.
Location: Women’s Center Lounge (SLB 15) | Time: 3pm to 5pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers (Women’s Center)

October 4 (Sat)

Carne Asada
A community gathering with food, music, and fellowship to celebrate Latinx/e heritage. This social event fosters community bonding in a relaxed and festive environment.
Location: Student Union South Patio | Time: 12pm to 2pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers, La Familia RSOs

October 7 (Tues)

SAC Collaboration (Chibbi)
A collaborative program with the Student Activities Committee to spotlight Latinx/e heritage through activities and engagement. This partnership highlights the importance of cross-campus involvement and shared celebration.
Location: Diversity Centers (SLB 22) | Time: 6pm to 8pm | Sponsors: SAC, Diversity Centers

October 9 (Thurs)

Comida en Comunidad (Buenas Vibras)
A shared meal and dialogue space to foster community and celebrate Latinx/e traditions around food and gathering. Students and staff come together to build relationships while enjoying culturally meaningful dishes.
Location: Student Union SLC | Time: 6pm to 7pm | Sponsors: Volunteer and Civic Engagment

DiversiTea: ¿Quien es José Sarria?
Learn about José Sarria, a pioneering Latino LGBTQ+ activist and drag performer, while engaging in casual conversation over tea. This program brings attention to an important historical figure whose advocacy still resonates today.
Location: Diversity Centers (SLB 22) | Time: 4pm to 6pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers (Gender and Sexuality Student Services)

October 10 (Fri)

National Coming Out Day
An observance recognizing the courage of LGBTQ+ individuals in the Latinx/e community and beyond. This event provides visibility, support, and resources for those navigating their identities.
Location: Student Union Center Ballroom | Time: 12pm to 2pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers (Gender and Sexuality Student Services)

October 14 (Tues)

Chicanas Watch Party
Film or media screening that highlights Chicanas of 18^th street voices, stories, and cultural contributions. This virtual watch party creates asynchronous space for collective reflection and appreciation of Chicana identity and influence. 
Location: Virtual | Time: N/A | Sponsors: Diversity Centers, Brookens Library

October 15 (Wed)

HLHM Closing Ceremony (Sip n Paint)
Celebrate the conclusion of Hispanic/Latinx/e Heritage Month with reflections, performances, and community recognition. This event honors the month’s achievements while looking forward to continuing advocacy, education, and celebration.
Location: Diversity Centers (SLB 22) | Time: 12pm to 2pm | Sponsors: Diversity Centers