Rising from their original Spanish descent, Latinos have become the largest minority in the United States. According to the 2003 U.S. Census Bureau, Latinos account for 39.9 percent of the population, passing blacks who make up 36.4 percent. To celebrate the culture and vernacular of the Latino race, Prairie View is celebrating its first Latino Heritage Month.
Starting Sept. 15, 2005, Latino month will consist of various activities and cultural experiences.
Events planned include Salsa on the Hill, Aztec dancing, Latino movie night, and Ballet Grafirna, just to name a few.
Faculty and staff are also encouraged to participate in Latino Heritage Month.
“We are targeting the faculty so that students can attend events during the day,” said Mrs. Amparo Navarrette of the College of Arts and Sciences.
“I will also be teaching faculty and staff Spanish, and they will be learning how to salsa and dance.”
“I feel that Latino month is important because it will give a better understanding of each culture,” said Cory Neblette, a senior political science major.
“We, as African Americans, don’t realize the similarities that exist among Latinos and blacks.”
Students are encouraged to attend the events of Latino month and should be on the lookout for flyers announcing each experience.
“Latino month is a way for us Hispanic students to share our commonalities,” said Claudia Munoz, a student here at Prairie View.
“Come out and have fun with us, we will eat, drink, and be merry.”
“Yeah,” chimed in Alejandra, a student eager to share her culture with the world. “Come and be with us. I want us to be together, so we can see how similar we are.