At EvCC there is so much diversity on campus, especially the ways students celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. This month is an annual celebration for many to recognize and learn about their rich ethnic heritage, and for others, it is an opportunity to connect with different traditions and new experiences.

Hispanic Heritage Month is filled with different Hispanic cultures. Although hardships these past few years made gathering more difficult, EvCC students were dedicated to embrace these cultures through community events, dancing, traditional foods, and looking back at history. Observed from September 15 until October 15, this month celebrates the citizens and ancestors coming from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

EvCC student Yuliana Marquez spent time listening to her mother reminisce about life back in Mexico. She learned about the differences of growing up in the US and discovered more about her family’s history.

“Hearing all the stories about my family makes me feel closer to them,” Marquez says.

Learning about different cultures can bring understanding to other communities and break down cultural barriers. For many, it can be challenging to connect with those who do not share the same language. Considering so many Hispanic countries speak Spanish, some might think it’s needed to join in, but that is not the case. In Spain, Latinos may speak Spanish, but in contrast, those in Brazil do not. Latin America is full of Latinos speaking Portuguese rather than the language many might regard as standard.

“Being Hispanic to me means [recognizing] all our different cultures, foods, and traditions all the way from Mexico to South America,” says Ahilin Rivera, EvCC student from Honduras. “Our accents change.”

To mark the day, the president of Mexico Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador delivered a speech honoring the history of “el 15 de septiembre” and his Mexican pride. In Mexico, one of the biggest celebrations is Hispanic Heritage Month commemorating their independence. Mexico City’s firework show brought together many students excited for the opportunity to watch the monumental event on TV.

According to the US Census Bureau as of 2019, the Hispanic population of the US constituted 18.5 percent, making them the nation’s largest ethnic minority. Living in the US is very different culturally from Hispanic countries, but connection to their heritage is kept alive through family and tradition. As the nation’s melting pot continues to become more diverse, it’s beautiful to see Hispanic cultures support each other despite being so distant from their home countries.

For many, bonding and keeping up with traditions in their heritage stems from spending time with loved ones. For parties, it’s always, “I will put out the tacos” or “I will make the pupusas!” EvCC student Amalia Ocampo invested time with family at home to celebrate with out-of-town cousins and relatives earlier this month.

“It’s a wonderful part of the Hispanic community and culture to know your family will always have your back,” says Ocampo.

For those interested in learning more, you can watch the Everett Community College sponsored Hispanic Heritage Month presentation with keynote speaker and Emmy-winning journalist Maria Hinojos on YouTube. Hoping to join a student community and broaden your Hispanic culture? Check out EvCC club offerings or take some time to find out by visiting the National Hispanic Heritage Month website.