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Carlie Pierre
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From September 15 through October 15, the Salem State University community comes together to celebrate the rich histories, lasting contributions and diverse cultures of Hispanic and Latinx communities in the United States and beyond. Learn more.
The theme for this year’s observance is "Collective Heritage: Honoring Our Roots, Inspiring Our Future." We invite you to attend and engage with our SSU community events, which are designed to explore the intersection of heritage, identity, and empowerment through art, scholarship, activism, and community dialogue.
This month is an opportunity to honor the vibrant traditions, histories, and experiences of Latinx and Hispanic communities here in the Northshore, the United States, and across the world. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges faced by Latinx communities and the resilience shown by generations past and present.
2025 Event List
Salem Lit Fest-A Conversation with Julia Alvarez
Sunday, September 7, 3 pm | Salem Academy Charter School
Award-winning Dominican-American author Julia Alvarez will be discussing her latest work, “The Cemetery of Untold Stories” (El cementerio de los cuentos sin contar), in conversation with Keja Valens, Professor of English at Salem State University. The event will feature Spanish interpretation, ensuring accessibility for our diverse community.
Hispanic Serving City of Salem Flag Raising
Monday, September 15, 12-1:30 pm | Riley Plaza, Downtown Salem
Hosted by the City of Salem and the Latino Leadership Coalition
Inclusive Excellence Lunch & Learn
Bad Bunny: Neocolonialism and Resistance in Post-Maria Puerto Rico
Friday, September 19, 11:30 am-1 pm | Marsh Hall Petrowski Room
Join us on September 19, the anniversary of Hurricane Maria, as we kick off our first Lunch & Learn of the academic year and celebrate Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month! This bilingual multimedia conversation focuses on what is going on in Puerto Rico today, from the lens of Puerto Rican urban music star and singer, Bad Bunny.
Bad Bunny has become a prominent voice for resistance in Puerto Rico, using his music and platform to amplify Puerto Rican identity and address issues such as political corruption, colonialism, and the island's socio-economic challenges. Through DTmF, Bad Bunny calls the Diaspora to resistance, resilience and joy.
Join us in person or on Zoom. In-person participants can enjoy a Puerto Rican lunch menu. Come test your Bad Bunny and Puerto Rican knowledge for chances to win exclusive Bad Bunny merchandise! Bring a friend or el corrillo.
Hosted by Inclusive Excellence and HSI-MSI Initiatives
Mural Tour of the Punto Urban Art Museum and Reception at Casa de Abuela Patio
Wednesday, September 24, 4:30-6 pm
The Latinx ERG invites faculty and staff to join us in downtown Salem for a Mural Tour of the Punto Urban Art Museum followed by a Reception at Casa de Abuela patio. For more information, please contact Elisa Castillo & Michele Davila
Hosted by the Latinx Employee Resource and Affinity Group (ERG)
Latin American Dance Workshop
Thursday, September 25, 5-6:30 pm | ECC Veterans Hall
Join us to learn the basic steps to Merengue, Salsa and Bachata. This class will be facilitated by Music and Dance faculty, Greg Coles.
Hosted by Center for Creative and Performing Arts and the Dance Department
Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month ‘25 Dinner
Thursday, October 16, 5-7 pm | ECC Veterans Hall
Celebrate Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month '25 with us at our annual dinner!
Come enjoy vibrant music, flavorful dishes, and great company as we honor the diverse cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. This year's celebration will feature guest speaker Regina Zaragoza Frey, who serves as the DEI Director for the City of Salem's Race Equity Commission. All are welcome, so bring your friends and your appetite—this is a night you won’t want to miss!
Hosted by the Center for Justice and Liberation and HSI-MSI Initiatives
Critical Perspectives on Latino Education in MA Book Launch
Tuesday, October 14 | ECC Veterans Hall
Hosted by HSI-MSI Initiatives and McKeown School of Education in partnership with UMass Boston
Know Your Rights + Immigration Forum
Tuesday, October 14, 4:30-6 pm | Zoom
Hosted by Inclusive Excellence and HSI-MSI Initiatives
Celebrate Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month with Viking Dining:
- HLHM themed Lunch in North Campus Cafe
- HLHM themed Dinner in Marsh Dining Hall
Salem State University affirms its commitment to inclusive excellence by celebrating the cultures and voices that shape our shared future. Join us as we uplift the stories, resilience, and brilliance of Hispanic and Latinx communities.
All events are open to the campus community and the public.
For accommodations and access information, visit salemstate.edu/access or email access@salemstate.edu.
