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Show 10 | MyWeberMedia.com| September 22, 2020 By ALLY NELSON Senior Reporter National Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) was first proclaimed by former President George H. W. Bush on Sept. 14, 1989, so Americans could recognize the positive influence of Hispanic Americans through history and culture. According to the official Hispanic Heritage Month website, “National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries.” This year, Hispanic Heritage Month began on Sept. 15 and lasts through Oct. 15. The Diversity and Inclusive Programs and the Center for Multicultural Excellence at WSU have prepared a month’s worth of events in celebration of HHM for the university. Because Hispanic people from all different countries and different majors attend Weber State, these events have been chosen to cater to a variety of topics. Events have also been created and adjusted to be virtual, allowing for social distancing. Events include a virtual dance party with DJ Drew, an activist panel called “How Colorism Affects The Hispanic Community,” an art exhibit showcasing Mexican culture in Utah, a hispanic cooking class and a keynote speech from Biotechnologist Dr. Caicedo, who will speak about COVID-19 and the biopharma industry William Fernando Angel Amaya, Hispanic Senator for WSU’s Hispanic Area Council, said that going forward with events virtually has been known to have its obstacles, but it shows that Weber cares about the student population. “With the current times we’re living in, events are gonna be a lot different, but they’re gonna still have the same impactful message that they’ve had in the past,” Amaya said. “Weber’s really putting in the effort and they are making sure that students feel valued and safe here.” At WSU there are resources and organizations helpful for international students in navigating school, feeling productive and connecting to those similar to them. One such organization is the Hispanic Area Council. The HAC strives for inclusiveness with every Weber State University student. HAC advisor Monica Rodriguez is a Colombia native who has always had a love for working with multicultural students and their families. Rodriguez said it’s important that HHM is celebrated at WSU so that the HAC can have a positive impact on students, and help them realize Latinx Americans have made a positive impact on America. “It’s an opportunity to be able to embrace, educate, advocate and connect as a community,” Rodriguez said. “We have an existential |