September marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, but Penn State has numerous events to offer well through October. This year’s theme is “Unidos en la Diversidad,” “United in Our Diversity.” These events are open for students of all cultural backgrounds to enjoy!
Literary
Through Oct. 15, students will be able to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from Penn State University Libraries Libby app. The display includes an array of titles from Hispanic writers ranging from fantasy novels to historical narratives. Check them out here.
Cultural & Social
Also through Oct. 15, students can stop by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center to visit the Latinx Heritage Month Ofrenda, where students can enjoy some pan dulce (sweet bread). An ofrenda is a ceremonial altar — one of the most central traditions for Day of the Dead — where people can honor and remember their loved ones who have passed on.
On Friday, Oct. 11, the Latino Caucus, Brazilian Student Association (BRASCA) and Latin American Graduate Student Association (LAGRASA) will be in the Paul Robeson Cultural Center. You can come to enjoy some free Latine food, papel picado (perforated paper with intricate designs), music and much more. The event is set to run from noon to 3 p.m.
Latinos in Politics
On the evening of Oct. 15, at Heritage Hall, HUB-Robeson Center, students can participate in the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month Cultural Night, which will feature keynote speaker Mike Madrid, political consultant and author of “The Latino Century.” Madrid will be speaking about the Latino vote in the United States. Though tickets are required to attend, they are available at no cost.
Volunteerism
During this month, students can also give back to their Penn State and local community. Students wishing to participate in the Dolores Huerta Day of Service can do so on Sunday, Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. On this day student volunteers at the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm will harvest flowers for St. Andrews Church’s weekly Community Café. On Thursday, Oct. 17 from 5 to 7 p.m., students can volunteer at St. Andrews Church in downtown State College to serve dinner to Community Café guests. Those wishing to volunteer should email vjp111@psu.edu for more information.
Music
Penn State University Park closes Hispanic Heritage Month events with a performance by Grammy award-winning Eddie Palmieri. On Wednesday, Oct. 23, at the Eisenhower Auditorium, students can enjoy a performance by the Eddie Palmieri Salsa Orchestra. Born in New York to Puerto Rican parents, Palmieri has spearheaded a groundbreaking and unique approach to Latin jazz and salsa for over 60 years. Palmieri is well known for his innovative sounds mixing Afro-Caribbean rhythms with American jazz. Tickets are $10 for University Park students.
Be sure to tag us on social media @VALLEYmag with your favorite Hispanic Heritage Month events!
