2024 Hispanic Heritage Month
JOIN THE CELEBRATION!
SEPTEMBER 15 – OCTOBER 15
Each year, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the contributions and importance of Hispanics and Latinos to the United States and those American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. September 15th was chosen as the kickoff date since it coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of five countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua), followed by Mexico on September 16th, Chile on the 18th, and Belize on the 21st. Another important date that falls within this 30-day period is Día de la Raza, or Indigenous Peoples Day, which is celebrated in Mexico and other countries on October 12th.
Please join in recognizing and paying tribute to generations of Hispanic or Latin people who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society through their achievements and contributions. Let’s celebrate the rich culture, histories and diversity of the Hispanic community!
2024 HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH THEME & POSTER
This year’s theme is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together”. The theme is meant to capture the Hispanic experience's "spirit of innovation, resilience, and unity". The National Council of Hispanic Employment Program (NCHEPM) selects the annual theme and poster that federal agencies use to observe the month. The 2024 poster was created by Mariana I. Purcell Rivera, a Puerto Rican artist and architecture student.
For campus events, programming and resources, feel free to contact the campus resources below. Also, consult your city, local and community calendars for an array of events planned to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month!
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For more information, contact:
Gloria Elam MD, MPH, FACOG
Associate Dean of Diversity & Inclusion, UI COM
Associate Professor of Clinical Obstetrics & Gynecology
Associate Department Head of Clinical Affairs
Constance Umbles-Sailers, MS
Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, UI COM
Elsa L. Vazquez Melendez, MD, FAAP, FACP
Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion – UI COM Peoria
Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine
Alesia Hawkins Jones, PhD
Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion – UI COM Rockford
Associate Professor and Director of Behavioral Medicine
Department of Family and Community Medicine