The Panther

Media Credit: Evelyn McCormick

Hispanic Heritage Month kicked off Friday, Sept. 14 in the Willie Albert Tempton Memorial Student Center with the pleasant sound of a mariachi band.

Prairie View A&M University commemorates Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.

Students, faculty and staff enjoyed music as it played throughout the foyer and dining area. "I'm enjoying it [the mariachi music]. I think it is very important to broaden your horizon and embrace another culture," said Jamie Jackson, Miss Prairie View.

Originally designated for a one week celebration during the month of September in 1968; Hispanic Heritage Month was extended to a monthlong observation, celebrating the independence of Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua who gained their liberty on Sept. 15.

They were followed by Mexico on Sept. 16 and Chile on Sept. 18.

The month is an opportunity for students on campus to share in diversity, celebrate Latino culture, and acknowledge the achievements and contributions made by Latinos.

Elma Gonzalez, director of multicultural affairs, had high aspirations for the celebration, hoping that it would encourage "students of Prairie View to support diversity, share cultures, and build respect and sensitivity of others in a learning environment."

Some of the activities that will take place this month include the fourth anual Salsa on the Hill, Sept. 26 on the north lawn of the MSC and a Latino Comedy Night on Sept. 27 in the MSC auditorium.

The comedy show features Happy Guerrero who has performed with George Lopez, Bill Cosby, and Jay Leno. The celebration will conclude with karaoke night Oct. 5 in the MSC ballroom.

"These activities are a great way for students of different backgrounds to come together. What better way to bring the university together than through food, music, and dancing," said Gonzalez.

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