2025 Latinx Heritage Month Events
Latinx Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, a period chosen to honor the independence days of several Central American and South American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15, Mexico on September 16, Chile on September 18, and Belize on September 21.
Originally the celebration was established as a week-long celebration by President Johnson in 1968. President Reagan expanded it to a month in 1988 to allow for a more comprehensive recognition of the significant contributions Hispanic and Latinx Americans have made to the United States.
We are proud to offer to you a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and celebrate the rich diversity of the Latinx culture. Throughout history, Latinx activists, writers, scientists, educators, musicians, athletes, entrepreneurs, and artists have left a solid legacy that continues to shape and enrich our nation. Join us in celebrating the Latinx Heritage at our upcoming events next month.
Because students do not start class until the end of September, at COCC we celebrate the whole month of October!
Culinary Traditions
Friday, October 17, 4 - 6 p.m.
Prineville Campus, room 119
Real Latin American food is flavorful and distinctive.
Join us to taste some of the delicious recipes that have
survived for centuries, while we share the stories
behind them.
Writing Your Name in Mayan Glyphs: A Workshop with Pedro Parra
Thursday, October 23, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Redmond Campus, Technology Education Center
Immerse yourself in the native writing system of the Maya civilization and learn how to write your name using Mayan glyphs, while listening to ancestral sounds of pre-Hispanic origin.
Space is limited, please RSVP to latinx@cocc.edu.
Traditional Healing Practices in Mental Health
Dr. Claudia Bisso-Fetzer
Friday, October 24, 4:30 - 6 p.m.
Madras Campus, room 114
This lecture explores the role of traditional healing practices in supporting mental health across Latin America. It examines cultural approaches to wellness, the integration of ancestral knowledge with modern mental health frameworks, and the ways these practices shape community resilience and identity.
Lecture & Latin Ensemble Concert
Dr. Freddy Vilches
Professor at Lewis & Clark College, Portland OR
Tuesday, October 28, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Bend Campus, Coats Campus Center, Wille Hall
This lecture provides an in-depth analysis of the foundational contributions of Latin American communities to the historical and cultural development of the United States. Following the talk, the event culminates with a music performance that traces the stylistic development of salsa music, highlighting its rich fusion of African, Caribbean, and other Latin American contributions.
In advance of College events, persons needing accommodation or transportation because
of a physical or mobility disability should contact Campus Services at 541-383-7775.
For accommodation because of other disability such as hearing impairment, contact
Student Accessibility Services at 541-383-7583.