The Division of Student Life at Iona College in New Rochelle will be celebrating Latinx Heritage Month in October with a special keynote speaker.
Paola Mendoza, a social activist and filmmaker, was a co-founder of the Women’s March and is well-known as an advocate on issues relating to the impact of immigration on children and women. This will be presented as part of the Charles F. O'Donnell ‘60 Lecture Series. Banner printing can be used throughout the campus and the community to make such special events known to the public.
National Latinx Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15 and recognizes the histories, diverse cultures, and many contributions of the American Latino community. It originated as “Hispanic Heritage Week” under President Lyndon Johnson in 1968, and President Ronald Reagan extended it to a month-long celebration in 1988.
Across the country there are community gatherings, conferences, art shows, and festivals, among other types of celebrations. Several Latin American countries also celebrate their independence days. Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Guatemala mark the occasion on September 15, Mexico on September 16, and Chile on September 18. Another way in which Hispanic contributions are recognized is by Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day in Puerto Rico on October 12.
The talk will take place at the Ryan Library Romita Auditorium on Tuesday, October 6 from noon to 1:00 pm.
