Penn State Brandywine is joining other Penn State campuses across Pennsylvania from Sept. 15 through October to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept 15 to Oct. 15 with several events.

The unifying theme for this year’s observances is “Nuestra Música (Our Music): Identity, Culture, and Resistance,” chosen by the University Park Hispanic Heritage Month organizing committee.

In September 1968, the U.S. Congress authorized then President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, expanded in 1989 to a month-long celebration of the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.

Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.

More information about events organized by the Hispanic Heritage Committee, and a list of Latino student organizations at University Park, is available here.

The following are scheduled for Penn State Brandywine.

• Saturday, Sept. 17, 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.–Satur-Stay movie: “Selena,” Student Union Parsons Hall. Popcorn and soda are available. Sponsored by Student Engagement.
• Tuesday, Sept. 20, noon to 2 p.m., Latinx Fest, Student Union Parsons Hall. Food, crafts, salsa lessons, and more. Sponsored by Student Engagement.
• Thursday, Sept. 29, noon to 1:30 p.m., Student Union 114-117. Javier Ávila, one-man show: “The Trouble with My Name”.  Sponsored by Student Engagement.
• Thursday, Oct. 6, 6 to 7 p.m., National Hispanic Heritage Month trivia game show.  Student Union Parsons Hall. Sponsored by Student Engagement.

Watch this TED Talk from America Ferrera talking about how her identity is a superpower.