The University of Toledo will celebrate the history and culture of Latinos during Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, with educational programs, an open house and a piñata-making class.

“In any institution and university setting, a key component is embracing diversity,” said Sabina Serratos, UT Director of Latino initiatives.  

According to Serratos, this year’s events focus on the different cultures within Latino heritage, including: 

· Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Celebration — Monday, Sept. 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Union South Lounge.  Free food and music will be provided by the Latino Student Union to help celebrate the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month.

· Movie Night — Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 9 to 11 p.m. in Student Union Rooms 2591 and 2592. “Take the Lead,” the story of ballroom dancer Pierre Dulane starring Antonio Banderas, will be shown. The movie will be followed by a dance presentation by a former professional dancer who volunteers to teach dance in the New York public school system. 

· Dance Instruction Workshop — Wednesday, Sept. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. in Student Union Ingman Room. Area dance instructors will provide hands-on dance techniques and instructions for the salsa, merengue and cumbia. 

· Hispanic Heritage Jeopardy — Thursday, Sept. 21, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Multicultural Student Center Gallery. Attendees are invited to test their knowledge on Hispanic heritage in a game that focuses on Hispanic culture. Prizes will be awarded.

· Hispanic Heritage Month Community Service Project — Saturday, Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to noon in South Toledo .  Join members of the Latino Student Union, Sigma Lambda Gamma Latina Sorority, Sigma Lambda Beta Latino Fraternity and the Hispanic Heritage Month planning committee to clean up a South Toledo neighborhood.

· Tamale-Making Class — Wednesday, Oct. 4, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Sofia Quintero Hispanic Arts and Cultural Center, 1225 Broadway St. Learn how to make authentic tamales. Attendees will perfect the tamale-making technique and eat their work.

· Piñata-Making Class — Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Multicultural Student Center Gallery. Attendees will learn about the history of the piñata and have the chance to make one to take home.

· Latino Music Concert — Friday, Oct. 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Center for Performing Arts. Attend the performance of the University of Puerto Rico ensemble, Conjunto Criollo, and groove to the rhythmic flavor of South American music.

In addition, displays highlighting artifacts, literature and other cultural representations from Latin America will be on display throughout the Student Union and the first floor of Carlson Library during Hispanic Heritage Month.

The events are sponsored by the Latino Student Union, Multicultural Student Center and the Office of Latino Initiatives. For more information on the free events, contact Serratos at 419.530.2992 or at [email protected].