“Mi Gente” Students Highlight Hispanic Heritage Month

“Mi Gente” Students Highlight Hispanic Heritage Month

Ariana Chery Gonzalez ‘28, representing Thayer Academy's Hispanic and Latino affinity group, Mi Gente, led a presentation to the Upper School as part of the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15).

Ariana Chery Gonzalez '28

The presentation highlighted the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month, a dedicated time to recognize and uplift the voices of Hispanic and Latino communities. Hispanic Heritage Month spans from mid-September to mid-October rather than fitting within a single calendar month. This timeframe is intentional, as it coincides with the independence celebrations of several Latin American countries, starting on September 15 with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

In her presentation, Ari emphasized the distinction between "Hispanic" and "Latino," explaining that while the terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different cultural backgrounds. 

The term “Latino” is used to describe a person with cultural or ancestral ties to Latin America or the Caribbean. "Hispanic" refers to a person with ancestry from a country whose primary language is Spanish or having a connection to Spain. 

“What is most important is to not make assumptions about someone else’s identity. A person can choose to share or not share their identity and what being Hispanic or Latino means to them,” Ari said. “One of the most important things you can do is make connections, get to know one another. Someone can share more about who they are -  when they feel comfortable.” 

Ari encouraged students to explore ways to celebrate Hispanic culture. She introduced notable figures like Mexican-American singer Selena Quintanilla, who broke barriers in the music industry, and healthcare advocate Helen Rodríguez-Trías, a pioneering Puerto Rican physician, educator, and women's rights activist known for her work in public health and advocacy for the rights of women and children. The presentation also emphasized the influence of Hispanic culture on American culture through food, music, and art, citing traditional dishes like Arroz con Pollo and Empanadas, as well as music styles like Salsa and Reggaeton.

The presentation concluded with Mi Gente president Anthony Feliciano ‘25 introducing a video featuring Thayer's Hispanic and Latino students and faculty. 

By spotlighting cultural heritage, history, and key figures, the presentation underscored the importance of the Thayer community's commitment to the value of diversity and the ongoing opportunity to learn from and support one another.

Recent News