UNM is a sponsor of Hispanic Heritage Month, a month-long celebration held from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. The series of events begins with a press-conference Wednesday, Sept. 8, at 11 a.m. in Old Town Plaza, hosted by Albuquerque Mayor Richard Berry. Others scheduled to attend include representatives from organizations on the Hispanic Heritage Month Committee and speakers from the community.



A calendar listing the month long events will be unveiled at the press conference. Most events are free and open to the public.

Press conference agenda

• Welcoming Remarks - Jennifer Gomez-Chavez, Chair Hispanic Heritage Month Committee
• Mayor Richard Berry
• Dr. Estevan Rael-Gálvez, Executive Director; National Hispanic Cultural Center
• Marisol Enyart, SouthWest Organizing Project
• MANA – Hermanita Student & YDI Student
• Senator Linda López
• UNM ENLACE Mentor & CNM Student
• Alex Romero, CEO ; Albuquerque Hispano Chamber Commerce & Sandra Leyba, Chief Financial Officer; Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce

The Hispanic Heritage committee (HHC) was established in 2007 to coordinate and highlight Hispanic Heritage Month events offered by city and state-wide organizations.

Jennifer Gomez-Chavez, director, UNM Title V, and chair, HHC, said, "Many organizations have incorporated programming during the month to educate and engage all generations on heritage, traditions and practices focused on the contributions that Hispanics have made to American society in the areas of fine arts, education, veteran affairs, business, government and health care. The goal of the HHMC is to promote and preserve Hispanic culture for present and future generations. It is through these events that we hope to continue the traditions and spirit that adds to our unique history, language and legacy."

UNM organizations participating include the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, El Centro de la Raza, Office for Equity and Inclusion, Comadre a Comadre, Title V Educational Initiatives and UNM LULAC Youth Council.

Media contact: Carolyn Gonzales, 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu