SXU Celebrates Latinx Heritage Month
The Saint Xavier University (SXU) community is celebrating Latinx Heritage Month throughout September and October with a variety of events, conversations, learning opportunities, and more.
Latinx Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The observation began in 1968 as a week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period beginning September 15. September 15 is significant as it celebrates the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
SXU is proud to be recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) since 2014 and provide opportunities for growth to Hispanic students while celebrating their culture and tradition with the whole SXU community. Students have the opportunity to participate in building SXU's HSI identity and history through a variety of academic, cultural, leadership and other professional organizations.
"As we celebrate Latinx Heritage Month this September, I invite you to join us in honoring the vibrant cultures and contributions of the Latinx community. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together, learn from one another, and foster belonging within our diverse University," said Imelda Macías, assistant vice president of the Office of Family and Community Engagement.
September
Latinx Authors and Films
All month long, the SXU community can visit the Robert and Mary Rita Murphy Stump Library in person or online to view a curated collection of books, films, documentaries, and information on cultural centers and museums around Chicago that celebrate the work and contributions of Latinx communities.
Latinx Inspired Food in the Diner
Every Thursday during Hispanic Heritage Month, the SXU dinner will offer a lunch option inspired by Latinx culture.
Mental Health Lotería – September 17
Join us at noon in the SXU Diner Atrium for a fun and meaningful game of Lotería—with a twist! We're mixing traditional Latinx culture with real talk about mental health. Come for the snacks and stay for the prizes. Let's break the stigma, one card at a time. ¡Te esperamos!
Grito Contest – September 19
Join us at 5 p.m. at the Warde Academic Center mainentrance to see who has the best Mexican grito (yell)!
White Sox Hispanic Heritage Night – September 19
Join us at 5:30 p.m. for this free event as the Chicago White Sox host the San Diego Padres. This event is open to students enrolled during the 2025 fall semester and includes round-trip bus transportation from SXU.
UndocuAlly Training – September 30
The UndocuAlly training, held either at 11 a.m. or 5 p.m. in the Butler Reception Room, provides staff and faculty with an opportunity to learn how to better serve and support our students on campus and create a welcoming climate as dictated by our mission, core values, and the Sisters of Mercy's Critical Concerns.
October
Comadreando Con Conchas – October 1
Come chit-chat with us like we're comadres while we drink warm drinks and eat delicious conchas! We'll be in the Wiseman Student Lounge at 11 a.m.
Dia de Muertos Altar – October 6
Students are invited to help build the Day of the Dead ofrenda in the SXU Diner at 3 p.m.
Horchata and Bachata – October 15
Join us for this second annual event in the Butler Reception Room at 2 p.m. Come dance or learn to dance to bachata music while you sip on some delicious horchata alongside Unidos members.
Las Locas – October 16
All are invited to attend the Las Locas comedy show in McGuire Hall at 7 p.m. Las Locas describe themselves as a "Chicago comedy showcase that highlights Latina/Latinx comedic talent and honorary 'locas' per show."
UNIDOS Latine Fest – October 23
Join us in the Butler Reception Room at 5 p.m. to celebrate the history and culture of the Latinx/Hispanic community. Come out for tables exhibiting different Hispanic foods, clothing, and cultures. We will also have a special performance!
Dia de Los Muertos Experience – October 29
Students, staff, and faculty are invited to the Day of the Dead Experience at 5:30 p.m. in the Butler Reception Room to enjoy a special evening of music, stories, remembrance, food, and celebration.
Day of the Dead Celebration – November 5
Cougar Scholars and Unidos are collaborating for a Day of the Dead Celebration at 2 p.m. in the Wiseman Student Lounge. Come decorate your own skull and watch a movie.
"A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the groups and individuals making these celebrations possible. Your dedication—from our incredible staff to passionate student organizations—brings these events to life. Each celebration connects us, allowing us to share stories and traditions that enrich our experience at SXU! Let's embrace our differences while discovering the common threads that unite us. I encourage everyone to participate and make lasting connections this month. Together, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant campus community," said Macías.