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-Editorial
As National Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, the 10 community colleges across San Diego and Imperial counties have concluded a series of dynamic events and activities that celebrate the rich cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. The month-long celebration included educational workshops, cultural events, and discussions that provided a space for students, faculty, and community members to come together and acknowledge the enduring influence of Hispanic heritage within the region.
The events, hosted by the San Diego Imperial Counties Community Colleges Association (SDA), featured unique opportunities for learning, connection, and cultural appreciation. From film screenings and musical performances to thought-provoking discussions on Hispanic culture’s impact on society, these initiatives served as a platform to celebrate the diverse stories and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino communities.
Dr. Lenor Johnson, Superintendent/President of Imperial Valley College and Chair of SDICCCA, emphasized the significance of the celebrations, stating, “We celebrate the incredible journeys of our Hispanic and Latino students, faculty, staff, and alumni, whose strength, passion, and contributions enrich our community colleges and the broader communities they serve.”
The association includes the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District (Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges), Imperial Valley College, MiraCosta College, Palomar College, the San Diego Community College District (City, Mesa, and Miramar Colleges, and San Diego College of Continuing Education), and Southwestern College. The celebrations across these colleges featured a range of activities to honor National Hispanic Heritage Month:
Grossmont College: The college launched its Latinx Heritage Month festivities on September 16, featuring a kickoff event with churros, music, and a lively atmosphere in the Main Quad. The month continued with events such as the Community College & Beyond panel on September 18, a presentation by Latino columnist Ruben Navarrette on September 25, and National Latino/Physician Day on October 1. Students also participated in the Latinx Leadership Forum on October 2 and celebrated National Coming Out Day on October 10 with a Latinx LGBTQ pride event. The month wrapped up with cultural events including Cafecito y Crafts on October 15 and a Day of the Dead celebration on October 29.
Cuyamaca College: The college’s events were part of its Culture & Community Circle series, with activities throughout September that included historical and cultural celebrations, screenings of “Latino Americans,” and discussions focused on community engagement and mental health within the Latinx community. The “College Hour” series brought in guest speakers, performances, and community gatherings to honor the traditions and histories of the Latinx community.
Imperial Valley College: Celebrations included a lively event on September 27 hosted by the Associated Students Government, featuring lucha libre, music, food, and an educational space highlighting the Chicana/o Studies program. On October 11, IVC partnered with the Pioneers’ Museum for a Chicana/o Studies Film Festival, featuring a screening of “Coco” (2017) and a discussion on the film’s cultural significance. The events aimed to foster cultural pride, community engagement, and a deeper understanding of Hispanic heritage.
MiraCosta College: Hispanic Heritage & History Month kicked off with “Good Chisme,” a roundtable discussion on identity and culture. Events throughout the month included film screenings and workshops such as “Tortilla 101” and “Reggaetón 101,” which explored the significance of food and music in Hispanic culture, enhancing community connections and appreciation for the diverse Hispanic narratives.
Palomar College: The college hosted nearly a dozen events, including a screening of “La Mujer de Estrellas y Montañas” with a subsequent Q&A session. The workshops and webinars explored topics such as the role of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Mexican American activism, Chicano/a/x literature, and migration issues at the U.S.-Mexico border. A writing workshop focused on amplifying BIPOC voices and the cultural significance of spoken word.
San Diego Community College District: Events across the district recognized the cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. Highlights included a presentation by Randy Parraz, author of “Dignity by Fire,” at Miramar College on October 15, and a poetry reading and workshop by poet Donato Martinez at Mesa College on October 16. These events encouraged students to reflect on Hispanic culture through creative expression and discussions about resilience in the face of adversity.
Southwestern College: The college celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with a flag-raising ceremony, musical and dance performances, and speeches from distinguished guests on September 12. The event also highlighted Southwestern’s HSI status and recognized the Puente program’s role in supporting Hispanic students for over 38 years.
The vibrant celebrations across SDICCCA colleges underscored a shared commitment to cultural diversity, education, and fostering an inclusive environment that honors the rich traditions and histories of Hispanic communities. As the month concludes, the community colleges continue to embrace Hispanic culture’s impact on the region, inspiring students and community members alike to reflect on and appreciate the heritage that shapes their shared experiences.