Latinx/e Heritage Month: USC Resources and Events Around LA
by Ani Antonyan Spring ‘24
Latinx/e Heritage Month, observed between September 15 and October 15, is a time to commemorate the rich history, vibrant culture, and significant contributions of the Latinx/e and Hispanic communities in the United States.
In 1968, Hispanic Heritage Week began under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was extended to a month-long observance by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. September 15 is the kick-off day since it’s the Independence Day celebration for Latin American countries, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and 18. Additionally, October 12 marks “Día de la Raza”, or the “Day of the Race,” a day designated to honor the traditions, people, and cultures that were destroyed by European colonization.
Latinx/e Heritage Month provides an additional opportunity to honor the remarkable influence that the Latinx/e and Hispanic communities have had on American society. This year’s theme is “Unity, Prosperity, & Culture.”
Celebrate and take time to dive deeper into the history and culture of the Latinx/e and Hispanic communities that continue to shape our nation.
To mark this month, here are some USC resources and events in the Los Angeles area to explore!
Latinx/e Heritage Month Spotify Playlist
USC students from La CASA and other Latinx clubs and organizations created an amazing Spotify playlist in honor of Latinx/e Heritage Month. Start listening here!
Books to celebrate Latinx/e Heritage Month
Need a new read? USC professors Natalia Molina and Josh Kun recommend nonfiction and artistic works that give readers insight into the Latinx culture. Find their book recommendations here.
Events at USC
September 19: Latinx and the Census
Do you want to learn more about how the Latinx/e population in the United States is counted? This workshop will explore how Latinx/e have or have not been counted by the U.S. Census.
September 21: Social Explorer Focus on Hispanic/Latinx Communities in Los Angeles
This workshop will focus on how the Latinx community is represented using data from the U.S. Census and the history of Latinx/Hispanic communities in LA.
September 22: La CASA Chat & Chill
Stop by the Student Union to meet La CASA and their different cultural ambassadors!
September 22: “This Is Not a True Story ” World Premiere at the Los Angeles Theatre Center
Presented by Artists at Play in partnership with the Latino Theater Company, “This Is Not a True Story” will have its world premiere at the Los Angeles Theater Company.
There is a waitlist open to current USC students only.
October 5: Exploring Latinx History through the Robin Dunitz Mural Archive
In this workshop, you will have the opportunity to explore the Robin Dunitz Mural archive with a focus on Latinx history and communities.
October 11: USC Latinx/e Heritage Month Closing
Join President Carol L. Folt, L.A. Poet Laureate Luis J. Rodriguez, students, faculty, staff, and alumni in Founders Park for a closing celebration of Latinx/e Heritage Month with free food, a DJ, and more.
Events Nearby
Hispanic Heritage Month Concerts at Ovation Hollywood
Every Friday from September 15 to October 13
Ovation Hollywood celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with live music in their courtyard featuring a variety of genres, including Latin Jazz, Mariachi, and pop.
“Tacos La Brooklyn” - Latino Theatre Co.
September 21
Latino Theatre Co. presents the world premiere of Tacos La Brooklyn.
In theaters September 21 - October 29.
Metro Bike Share Community Ride: Chicanx Art Tour of DTLA
September 23
On Saturday, September 23, the Metro Bike Share Community Ride will take riders through DTLA to learn about Chicanx history and communities through public art.
Made with Love: Chilaquiles and Red Sauce Cooking Class
September 23
Have you been wanting to take a cooking class? Join Chef Wendy Centeno of Guayaba Kitchen as she teaches you how to prepare a traditional rancho breakfast.
September 23
In partnership with Street Food Cinema, The Ford will be presenting a special screening of Selena on September 23rd.
Latinx Heritage Month Events at the Central Library
September 30
In addition to the events they will be hosting throughout the month, the Central Library in Downtown LA will present a full day of Latinx/e Heritage events on September 30th. Activities include photo booths, hands-on screen printing, food demos, and more.
October 7
The Olvera Street Muertos Artwalk in DTLA will feature more than 30 local artists selling original artwork, clothing, jewelry, face painting, and more.
Get Involved at USC
Keep up with Hispanic Heritage events and workshops with La CASA and USC LSA
Founded in 1972, La CASA strives to empower students through cultural identity, leadership, and community building.
The Latine Student Assembly is a non-profit umbrella group for Hispanic and Latine student organizations at USC. LSA’s mission is to voice the concerns and needs of the Latine community at USC. LSA holds biweekly general meetings on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. in TCC 227!
Be sure to consistently support and explore the Latinx/e (as well as all POCs) community and culture all throughout the year.
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