Niagara University Elevates Commitment to the Hispanic Community by Partnering with Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York for Hispanic Heritage Month 2024

Niagara University, in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York, is hosting two events during Hispanic Heritage Month that highlight the history and contributions of Hispanics in the Buffalo/Niagara region. More than 62 million people identified as ethnically Hispanic-people whose ancestors come from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America-according to the 2020 U.S. census, making it the country's second largest, and one of the fastest-growing, racial or ethnic minority.

"We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with institutions such as Niagara University, who opened their doors to the Hispanic Heritage Council, the Hispanic community, and the community at large, to celebrate our culture and highlight the great accomplishments of Hispanics in WNY," said Esmeralda Sierra, vice president of the HHC. "Our missions are similar. An integral part of our mission at the Hispanic Heritage Council includes education-it helps people become better citizens, we are able to shape a better society by knowing other cultures, appreciating and respecting them."

On Sunday, Sept. 29, a Hispanic Heritage Student Mass will be celebrated in the university's Alumni chapel at 5 p.m. The bilingual Mass will feature a Spanish choir and musicians. Following the service, a reception highlighting Hispanic culture with food and dance performances will be held in the Russell J. Salvatore Dining Commons.

On Tuesday, Oct. 1, Sierra will discuss the role Hispanics play and the impact of Hispanic organizations in our community at 4:30 p.m. in the Dining Commons. The presentation is co-sponsored by Niagara University's Latinos Unidos social club.

"Events like these underscore our commitment to celebrating the rich diversity of our community and our campus," said the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., Niagara University president. "Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are a core component of our Catholic and Vincentian mission, and we are delighted to welcome organizations like the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York to share their inspiring stories, to provide opportunities for dialogue and understanding, and to foster a deeper appreciation for the impactful contributions they have made."

Each year between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15, the HHC, in collaboration with the arts and cultural groups of Buffalo and Erie County, sponsors the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, which includes a variety of community activities and events that celebrate Hispanic heritage, history, and culture.