In classrooms, hallways, and community spaces across campus, GSB is coming together to recognize and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
The month-long celebration, which is observed from September 15 to October 15, is dedicated to the histories, achievements, and cultural contributions of Hispanic Americans whose ancestors came from the Hispanic diaspora. Hispanic Heritage Month begins in the middle of September in order to coincide with the Independence Days of several Latin American countries – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua’s national Independence Day is September 15, followed by Mexico (September 16), Chile (September 18), and Belize (September 21).
GSB kicked off the celebration today in a number of different ways, including:
- Exciting Book Displays in our Lower, Middle, and Upper School Libraries, which will spotlight books about Hispanic heritage and amplify the voices of Latinx authors throughout the month.
- A presentation at Lower School Assembly by Spanish Teacher, Adriana Morales Silver, who taught students about Mexican Independence Day.
- A presentation at the Middle School Town Hall by Middle School Science Teacher and STREAMS Program Director, Dr. Montana Vasquez-Grinnell, who shared facts with students about Hispanic Heritage and introduced future events to look forward to.
- A presentation at the Upper School Assembly by GSB’s Hispanic Heritage and Culture Club, in which club member, Jessica Jose-Navarette '22, shared her experience as Mexican-American with culture, family, and influential Hispanic Americans in her life.
- Cuisine highlights throughout the month in partnership with Sage dining services, providing an array of entrees honoring the Hispanic diaspora.
While the celebration might have kicked off today, community members across GSB will sustain the energy with programs and activities throughout the month.
“It's been my pleasure to be one of the faculty members, including my colleague Ana La Tournous, associated with the Hispanic Heritage and Culture Club,” commented Fernando Gomez, Upper School History Teacher and club advisor. “The club is in its second year and will look to increase its presence on campus and in the community through cultural events, discussions, and charitable initiatives. Emerging student leaders, like Jessica Jose-Navarrete, have been instrumental in pursuing these goals.”
On Wednesday, September 29, GSB’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Office will host an exciting musical event for all three divisions, Journey through Latin Percussion, that gives students a deeper understanding and appreciation for Latin, Caribbean, and South American rhythms and musical traditions. Later this month, 5th graders, under the leadership of MS Music Teacher, Amy Southerland, will also help celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at a Middle School Town Hall with an instrumental performance that provides a brief history of Hispanic music.