Each year, the Center presents many programs designed to strengthen students' sense of belonging through reflection and learning about Latino/a/x culture and the arts in the United States and around the world.
Below are some of our signature events:
Welcome to La FamiliaWelcome to La Familia (Welcome to the Family) is the Center’s main fall outreach program. Presented in September, the program welcomes new and returning students to campus and provides an opportunity for students to learn about engagement and leadership opportunities through student organizations, celebrate Latinx culture and the arts, and share food and fun! |
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Opening Ceremonies for Latino Heritage MonthThe Latino Student Council (LSC) established Opening Ceremonies in 1990 to help bring recognition to the diverse histories, cultural traditions, and social and political experiences of U.S. populations originating from countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Today, the program helps mark the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15--October 15). |
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Retreat: ManifestacionesOrganized in collaboration with the Latino Student Council, this retreat provides an opportunity for first and second year students to develop critical leadership skills that help build a socially just and inclusive community at Rutgers. |
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Day of the Dead: A Celebration of LifeOriginating in Mexico and Central America, the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead, November 1) is a tradition that celebrates life and the contributions of our ancestors through special offerings that include elaborate altars, foods, music and song. At Rutgers, we celebrate our cultural traditions and remember those who have led the way and contributed to our journey. |
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ParrandaParranda is a community tradition from Puerto Rico that celebrates the holiday season through music and song. The program highlights aguinaldos, a folk genre of Christmas music originating in Spain and Latin American countries that are traditionally sung during the holiday season. Every year, the Center brings our communities together to learn about this important tradition. |
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Cesar Chavez DayThis emerging national holiday celebrates on March 31 the life and legacy of labor organizer Cesar Chavez (featured in the photo with activist Dolores Huerta, with whom he founded the United Farm Workers Association). At Rutgers, this program helps recognize the work of Latinx activists of yesterday and today! |
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Pa’lante!The Pa’Lante Student Leader Graduation Ceremony was established in 2009 in order to recognize Latinx identified and affiliated graduating student leaders who have positively contributed to our community at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. Cohosted in partnership with the Latino Alumni Association of Rutgers University (LAARU), Pa'lante (Spanish for "forward") brings together graduates and celebrates their academic accomplishments, leadership and success! |
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