September 15th marks the first day of Hispanic-Latino Heritage Month, which runs until October 15th. This annual month-long celebration recognizes and honors the history and culture of Hispanic-Latino communities, and their contributions to American life.
The theme for 2024 is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” This theme captures the spirit of innovation, resilience, and unity that define the Hispanic experience. The Hispanic population has undoubtedly made a significant impact on the society, culture, and economy of the United States.
Important Dates:
- September 15th - The anniversary of independence for the Central American Federation countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
- September 16th - Mexico celebrates its Independence Day
- September 18th - Chile celebrates its Independence Day
- September 21st - Belize celebrates its Independence Day
Our Eastern Community
At Eastern University, we continue to benefit from the richness of Hispanic culture in our growing, diverse student body, and within our wider community. In Fall 2023, Hispanic Americans represented approximately 11% of our total student population. The dynamic Spanish-language Master of Theological Studies offered through Palmer Theological Seminary continues to serve students throughout the US and Latin America, including the newest cohort in Cuba. Esperanza College of Eastern University also continues to flourish with Hispanic students representing a significant portion of the total student enrollment and strengthening more Hispanic and Latino local communities than ever.
We continue to give thanks and praise to our God for these meaningful ministry opportunities and the growing enrichment and diversity they bring to our community.
Encouragement and Exhortation
As we think about the 2024 theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” I am reminded of the salience of working together. The “Preacher” in Ecclesiastes reminds us that, “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). To our Hispanic brothers and sisters, we love and embrace you in our community and commit to working with you as pioneers of change so that together we can shape the future. We celebrate your valuable contribution to the prosperity of our nation. As a Christian community, we continue our commitment to providing opportunities and resources to address issues of equity and create a sense of belonging for our Hispanic brothers and sisters.
We invite you to explore this detailed guide about Hispanic-Latino Heritage Month for more information about how you can commemorate this year.
Shalom! Shalom!
Randolph Walters, Psy.D, LPC, CCTP, CSAM
Special Assistant to the President for Diversity, Equity, and Belonging
Professor, Counseling Psychology Department