GW Students Unite 15 Groups for Latino Heritage Month

When Latino students at George Washington University chose their theme for this year's heritage celebration, they picked words with weight: "El Pueblo Unido Jamás Será Vencido" or "The People United Will Never Be Defeated."

The Latin Heritage Committee kicked off its monthlong celebration on September 13, uniting 15 student organizations representing the full spectrum of Latino cultures. From the Caribbean Students Association to the Mexican Student Association to Alianza, an organization for Afro-Latinx students, each group committed to hosting at least one event throughout the month.

Rick Tzompa-Chimal, a junior and the committee's administrative director, said the theme reflects what matters most right now. "When there are moments of tension or moments of difficulty, staying together as a collective gives us the power to stay strong and to continue," he explained.

The celebration launched with Meet La Familia in Square 80, where all 15 organizations gathered to introduce themselves to students. Claire Avalos, president of the Organization of Latin American Students, called it a chance for Latino students to find their "home away from home" on campus.

Planning started back in July with weekly meetings to coordinate schedules across all the groups. The celebration features everything from dance performances to academic sessions, including appearances by Congresswoman Delia Ramirez and Mexican Ambassador Roberto Lazzeri.

The Ripple Effect

What started as a heritage month has evolved into something bigger. The committee received support from GW's Multicultural Student Services Center and funding from the University-Wide Programs Fund, the same resource that supports South Asian and Black heritage celebrations on campus.

Careld Cruz, president of GW Fuego and a marketing director for the event, brought a unique perspective. Growing up surrounded by Latino culture in Latin America, dedicating just one month felt limiting at first. Now she sees how the celebration helps students stay connected to their roots while building new communities.

The participating organizations have grown comfortable with the annual tradition, making coordination smoother each year. OLAS alone is hosting three major events, including a keynote gala with Congresswoman Ramirez and a Latino music celebration closing out the month.

Fifteen student groups, countless hours of planning, and one powerful message: unity makes communities stronger.