Inclusivity and diversity remain central to the most pressing conversations on college campuses worldwide, including CSU Stanislaus. Equipping students with the necessary resources, tools, and data is essential for fostering informed, educated decision-making. In celebration of Latinx Heritage Month, Stan State launched its diversity series by hosting Las Cafeteras, a socially conscious band and collective of organizers from East Los Angeles, for two days of interactive workshops and a free concert that engaged both students and the local community.

“This event is not only an opportunity to honor heritage but an opportunity to bring together our campus and the greater community strengthening the bonds that make us a united and diverse region,” said President Dr. Britt Rios-Ellis in her opening welcome.

President Rios-Ellis announced this was the kick-off event for the diversity celebration series celebrating the rich culture, vibrant traditions, profound contributions, and welcome intersections of the Latinx community.

“Every movement starts with a story because every movement comes from an individual and one thing that we always say is, when you share your story, you give other people permission to share their story, when you are afraid to tell your story you give permission to other people to be afraid. So, what do we want to do, give permission to be afraid or to be free?” said Hector Flores, vocalist for Las Cafeteras, on day two of the workshops.

Carlos Avila-Chavez (sophomore, Economics) who attended the workshops on both days said, “I liked being able to hear their message about not being ashamed of who you are and being proud of your roots.”

“We didn’t just bring a band, but they did workshops,” said Dr. Sacha Joseph-Matthews, Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. “It’s so important that whenever we bring people to campus that students have the opportunity to do one-on-one engagement with them.”

Through their genre-blending performances and powerful storytelling, Las Cafeteras offered Stan State a unique opportunity to connect across cultures and communities, leaving a lasting impact that resonates far beyond the stage.