CSUB to begin celebrating Latinx Heritage Month

Series of events recognizing Hispanic culture and contributions start today

By California State University, Bakersfield

September 18^th, 2023

California State University, Bakersfield is celebrating Latinx cultural and historical contributions to the nation, region and campus community as part of its annual Latinx Heritage Month celebration.

Events and observances will be held through Oct. 9 in conjunction with National Hispanic Heritage Month, which began on Friday and runs through Oct. 15. Festivities will begin with a kick-off today at 1 p.m. on the Student Union patio, which will include music and free food.

“Campus Programming, working with various campus organizations and academic programs, has put together an exciting slate of events that helps CSUB celebrate Latinx Heritage Month,” said Dr. Alicia Rodriquez, a history professor and member of the Latina/o Faculty and Staff Association. “These events, in addition to showcasing the talents of our campus community and providing all of us with the opportunity to hear from a variety of guests, help spotlight Latinx culture and remind us of the important ways in which this diverse group has been part of the history of this country.”

More than 60% of undergraduates at CSUB identify as Hispanic. CSUB was federally designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) in 1998. A university receives an HSI designation if Hispanic students make up at least 25% of full-time equivalent undergraduates.

Latinx Heritage Month is just one of the ways that the university is striving to both celebrate and serve this student population.

“I’m very happy that CSUB, with the important role it plays in our community, has worked hard to develop a series of events and programs that help our campus and the broader community appreciate Latinx Heritage Month,” Dr. Rodriquez said.

Here is a list of the major events being held as part of Latinx Heritage Month this year:

Sept. 21: Brown Bag Discussion: “California Latinidades, Within and Beyond” with Dr. David Barrera, 12 p.m. in the Stockdale Room. Expression Nights: “Noche Bajo Las Estrellas,” 7 p.m. in the Stockdale Room courtyard.

Sept. 25: Ethnic Studies Presents Rosa Clemente, 4 p.m. in the Stockdale Room.

Sept. 27: Sabor Latinx, 12 p.m. on the Student Union patio.

Sept. 29: Edible Garden Latinx Celebration, 10:30 a.m. at the Edible Garden.

Oct. 3: Loteria Night, 5 p.m. in the Student Union Multi-Purpose Room.

Oct. 4: “Murals in the Latinx/Chicano Movement” featuring Professors Bill Kelley and Jesse Sugarmann at 12 p.m. A location has not yet been set. There will also be a performance of Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles at 4 p.m. at the Student Union patio.