National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) has a long and proud history of acknowledging and celebrating the history and cultures of people from Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Spain. The World Languages and Cultures Department brings the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month to Eastern’s campus with a series of events.
- Every Thursday students are invited to join a Spanish conversation group, La Mesa de Esapañol. Commonly called Mesa, these weekly meet-ups are great for native and heritage Spanish speakers, as well as students looking to learn Spanish. In a low-stress environment, students are encouraged to listen and engage in conversation in Spanish. Snacks like empanadas, pastries, coffee and juice. Join us every Thursday from 3:30-4:30 pm in Webb 223B.
- On Wednesday, September 24, the WLC Department hosts an informational event specifically designed for heritage and native Spanish speakers, Explora Español. Native and heritage Spanish speakers possess valuable language skills, which are particularly valuable in the current job market. At this information session, Professor Chan, Chair of the WLC Department, talks to student about how studying Spanish in college offers not only a deepened and refined command of the Spanish language, but also language credentials that are beneficial for their future careers. Explora Español is scheduled for September 24 from 1:30-2:30 pm in Webb 223B.
- On Thursday, October 2, in collaboration with the Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS), the WLC Department hosts, Festival de Cine, a screening of a series of short films from across genres of Latino cinema. The film selected are a mix of award winners and new releases, some are from established, well-known directors, while others feature emerging directors and actors. There is also an animated creation. Some of the films are in Spanish, but most feature Spanish and English. Subtitles are available. Following the film screenings, OLAS hosts a discussion forum in Webb 113.
As a preview, below are a couple quick descriptions of some of the films to be screened.
- Made in America (2025) Directed by Maritza Cruz. A heartbreaking story about two friends. A director’s cut was recently screened at the New York Latino Film Festival.
- Algún Día (2025) Directed by Anna Reynoso. A story about a mother and daughter struggle to find their place at Christmastime.
- Luchador (2015) A silly animated short about two abuelos squabbling in a market.
- Vale (2016) Directed by Alejandro Amenábar. A story of friends, romantic interests and language barriers (or not).
The film screening is FREE and open to the whole University community as well as the wider Willimantic community. Join us!
