Hispanic Heritage Month was originally only one week recognized by the United States government. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to cover a 32-day period from September 15 to October 15; the first day being significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

The month was formed so that those whose families came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America could have a time to celebrate histories and ancestries. Several other holidays and traditions are celebrated by Hispanics during this period and it has become nationally recognized in the United States, in businesses, and on college and university campuses.

Utilizing the skills and interests of the Longwood University Student Diversity & Inclusion Council (SDIC), the student-run council sponsored by the ODI, there will be several programs and activities during the 30-day period for students to engage in learning about Hispanic Heritage. Highlights of the month's programs include a Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff on September 15, at 6 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom as well as an informational and fun-filled salsa dancing lesson led by Eileen Torres on September 21, at 4:30 p.m. in the ABC room of the Student Union. A full schedule of the month's events is attached.

The Office of Diversity & Inclusion builds an inclusive campus atmosphere where student learning and development are strengthened by providing activities designed to assist in the emergence of citizen leader allies who understand and value diversity. Equally important, the office influences the social and academic development of students from historically underrepresented populations by providing them with opportunities to become engaged in organizations and programs intended to meet their specific needs and interests.

The schedule is as follows: 9/15-Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff: 6-8 pm in the Student Union Ballroom; 9/17-Many Cultures, One Community Tent Campaign; 9/21-Salsa Dancing with Eileen Torres: 4:30 pm in the ABC room of the Student Union; 9/24-Hispanic-themed dinner in Dorill Dining Hall; 9/25-Hispanic Heritage Panel Discussion-“An Emerging Population: Meeting the Needs of Today's Hispanic College Students” TWO SESSIONS: first session at noon in the Student Union Ballroom, second session at 7 pm in Blackwell Hall; 10/8-Lancer Productions presents Carlos Robson, Spoken word artist: Wygal Auditorium; 10/10-Sangria in front of D-hall: from noon-2 pm in front of Dorill Dining Hall; Movie Mondays: Showing Hispanic-themed movies in the Center for Diversity & Inclusion every two hours starting at noon and ending at 6 pm.