Stan State students, faculty and staff gathered in the Student Center for “¡Viva la Independencia!,” a celebration of Mexican Independence Day that kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month events on campus.
The event, held Tuesday, Sept. 16, was hosted by ASI, Student Leadership, Engagement, and Belonging (SLEB) and the Ethnic Studies Department.
The highlight of the event was a performance at the Warrior Steps by Mariachi Estelar, a San José based mariachi group. Students cheered and clapped, filling the atmosphere with celebration and pride.
Next to the Warrior Steps, ASI, SLEB and the Ethnic Studies Department served pan dulce and café de olla. The traditional foods encouraged students to get in line and grab a treat on their way to class.
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Pan Dulce being served to guests.
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Café de olla being served to guests.
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A table at the entrance of the event with pins that represent Hispanic Heritage Month.
“To me, Heritage Month is a month where we embrace cultures that vary from our own,” said Alexis King (Senior, English). She continues “It is a time to celebrate what makes everyone special.”
Students from different backgrounds stopped by the event and watched the mariachi group perform. For some, the event was more than entertainment; it was a meaningful acknowledgment of their heritage.
Jasmin Molina Arteaga (Student Center Events Coordinator), expressed her love for her Mexican heritage.
“This day reminds me how proud I am to be Mexican. It is celebrated here in the United States to honor the large Mexican American population and our rich cultural heritage,” said Molina Arteaga.
Mariachi music is a staple of Mexican culture and plays an important role in expressing joy, pride and culture during these types of public celebrations.
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Mariachi Estelar members mid performance.
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Mariachi Estelar performing at the event.
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Guests of the event enjoying the live music from the Mariachi.
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Mariachi Estelar on stage performing to the audience.
Vanessa Romero (Senior, Child Development) brought up that celebrating Mexican Independence Day on campus allows the community to come together.
“Celebrating Mexican Independence Day helps students feel seen and represented because it brings a sense of belonging, as we can come together to discuss Mexican culture and how deeply its impacted our families and ancestors,” said Romero.
Celebrations like “¡Viva la Independencia!” create a space for representation and community. For a campus where Mexican and Mexican-American students make up a significant portion of the population, these events matter. They allow students to feel seen, celebrated and connected to their cultural roots while also inviting other students to learn and engage.
“This event brought groups of people together to build a stronger Stan State community,” King added.
With Hispanic Heritage Month just beginning, “¡Viva la Independencia!” set the tone for a month of celebration, culture and community on campus.
