Latinx Heritage Month Celebration
EJIE proudly celebrates Latinx Heritage Month from September 15th to October 15th each year! Throughout Latinx Heritage Month, our campus buzzes with vibrant activities, from tabling events showcasing Latinx art, music, and traditions to delicious food.
2024 Events
A Song for Cesar: Film Screening
On Tuesday, September 3rd we hosted a free viewing of the film A Song for Cesar.
This documentary film by Abel Sanchez and Andres Alegria, presents a unique view of the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez and the farmworker movement. The film tells a previously untold story about the musicians and artists – including Joan Baez, Maya Angelou, and Carlos Santana, among others – who dedicated their time, creativity and even reputations to peacefully advance Cesar Chavez’s movement to gain equality and justice for America’s suffering farmworkers. The documentary also explores other facets of Cesar’s life – from childhood to his final days – revelations that, until now, have not been shared on screen.
Missed the event? You can stream the documentary here.
Somos Indigena: Latino Roots
On Tuesday, Spetember 17, we explored the rich history and cultural significance of Indigenous culinary practices with Dr. Claudia Serrato, an Indigenous Culinary Anthropologist and Chef. Dr. Serrato will share her knowledge and recipes, celebrating the rich culinary traditions of Indigenous Latinx cultures.
Dr. Claudia Serrato is an Indigenous culinary anthropologist, a public scholar, a professor of ethnic and food studies, and an Indigenous/Mesoamerican traditional plant-based chef. Born and raised in East Los Angeles, California, predominantly on a Mesoamerican (P’urhépecha, Huasteca, and Zacateco) sazon and diet, she began to cook alongside her elders at an early age, gaining time-tested food knowledge.
Claudia centered this knowledge in her academic studies, concluding in 2007 that decolonizing the diet was essential to the survival of Indigenous culinary epistemologies, foods, and foodways. The following year, in addition to offering private chef, pop-up, and catering services, she began presenting, speaking, publishing, and facilitating workshops on these topics in local and regional communities, educational institutions, and conferences, gaining public and national honor and recognition.
The Division of Equity, Justice, & Inclusive Excellence is proud to have co-sponsored this event with Executive Sous Chef, Jonathon Gutierrez Santiago.
Latinx Luncheon
Each year the Latinx Luncheon celebrates selected Latinx faculty & staff for their contributions to campus. During the luncheon, these individuals sharee their Latinx experiences and discussed how their heritage has contributed to their educational and professional journey.
Our 2024 Latinx Luncheon honorees were:
Dalia Magana
Jesus Sandoval Hernandez
Cynthia Granados
Victoria Garcia
Maria Maravilla
Cindy Arias
Sabrina Smith
2023 Events
Latinx Kick Off
The event occurred on September 20th, and it welcomed campus to an extravaganza of music, activities, and mouthwatering snacks. The event served as a vibrant celebration of Latinx heritage and culture. Ten student organizations took part, each hosting a table with activities that connected their organization to Latinx heritage, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for all attendees.
Strawberry Picker: Film Screening
Co-sponsored by Executive Lakeside Catering Chef Mitchell Vanagten, the event featured a film screening of the Strawberry Picker followed by a reception with strawberry-themed food and Strawberry Wheat Half Dome Beer. This documentary tells the inspiring story of Juan R. Fuentes, who overcame growing up in labor camps to become a renowned artist, offering insight into the struggles and resilience of the Chicano Art Community. Following the screening, director Eugenia Renteria, known for her acclaimed works, led an engaging Q&A session.
Latinx Luncheon
The Latinx Luncheon, held on September 25th, provided an opportunity for participants to gather over a shared meal and connect with inspiring Latinx faculty and staff on campus. As attendees enjoyed delicious food, they engaged in conversations, gaining insights, and forging meaningful connections. The event served as a platform to celebrate Latinx culture while fostering a sense of community and support among all who attended. With the backdrop of camaraderie and cultural pride, the Latinx Luncheon was a memorable experience that left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
