The University of Utah is gearing up for it’s annual Latine Heritage Month celebration. Organized by the U’s Center for Community and Cultural Engagement (CCE), Latine Heritage Month is observed from September 15 – October 15, 2025 in recognition of several Latin American countries, including Mexico and Central American nations, celebrating their independence during this period. This year’s theme, selected by the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers (NCHEPM), is “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future.”
The commemoration will include a variety of events hosted across campus—all providing a platform to share many Latine nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
“University students, faculty and staff, as well as members of our off-campus community interested in community building, cultural education and cultural celebration are invited to participate in any of the events we’ll be hosting,” said CCE director LeiLoni Allan McLaughlin.
Four campus events will mark the monthlong celebration. The first event takes place on Monday, Sept. 15 with a panel discussion regarding the history of latin identity hosted by the Office of Student Success & Engagement. Titled, Raíces y Ramas: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future, the dialogue will examine the development of culture and heritage over the years and the resulting societal impacts.
The second event, Crimson Conversations: “Creating Culture Through the Generations: A Latine Heritage Month Panel,” takes place on Thursday, Sept. 18. Co-hosted by CCE and the U’s Hinckley Institute of Politics, the conversation delves into the evolution of traditions within Latin cultures with panelists Joseline Sanchez, Cristian Gutierrez and Leandra Hernandez. The conversation will be moderated by David Leon.
The following week on Wednesday, Sept. 24, Solidarity Forums will debut. A final event, Unplug U, scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 2, is also in the planning stages.
“All are welcome to join in celebrating Latine Heritage Month 2025,” said Allan McLaughlin.
Latine Heritage Month evolved from Hispanic Heritage Week established by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968 to a full 30-day celebration under President Ronald Reagan in 1988.