Overview

At Governors State University there’s a good chance you’ll meet classmates who look a lot like you–or completely different. The diversity of our learning community is one of the things that makes us stand out–everybody fits in here. Our diversity is just one of the reasons GovState changes lives. We have programs that honor our diversity–and they’re just waiting for you to get involved in–special events, workshops, meetings and organizations. No matter which you choose, each recognizes the ethnic and cultural diversity of the campus as a community strength.


Celebrating Diversity and Social Justice

Let's celebrate diversity with our observance of history and heritage months. Throughout each designated month, Governors State University features a variety of programs and events highlighting the culture, traditions and contributions to society which these groups have made. During these months we host a variety of special events - you are bound to find one (or more) that you won't want to miss.


National Hispanic Heritage Month September 15 to October 15

Calendar of Events

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the unique voices, historical contributions and experiences of Hispanic/Latine Americans. Join the Center for Student Engagement and Intercultural Programs and campus partners in this month long celebration to honor the resilience and determination of the Hispanic/Latinx community.


SEPTEMBER 14
Chicago Fire Hispanic Heritage Night with ALAS

Time: 7:30 - 10 p.m.
Location: Soldier Field, Chicago

Join the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) for a night of futbol, culture and celebration as we honor Hispanic Heritage Month with the Chicago Fire! Limited tickets available by contacting ALAS@govst.edu.


SEPTEMBER 15 - 27
Hispanic Heritage Month Display

Location: B Wing Display Case

Visit the Hispanic Heritage Month display in the ‘B’ wing to learn about the contributions, cuisine and notable figures within the Latinx culture.


SEPTEMBER 16
¡Sabores de México y Lotería! Celebrating Hispanic Culture

Time: 12 - 2 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Lounge

Join us for an afternoon of delicious delights and cultural fun featuring traditional Mexican treats and the game of Lotería, a traditional Mexican board game of chance, similar to Bingo. Co-sponsored by the Center for Student Engagement and Association Latin American Students. Light refreshments served. Early arrival suggested.


SEPTEMBER 24
Fútbol Jersey Day

Time: All Day
Location: Virtual on Social Media

Post a pic wearing your favorite Soccer team’s jersey and tag #HHMGovState for entry to win a $50 Visa Gift Card.


SEPTEMBER 26
Alebrije Creations: Unleash Your Imagination!

Time: 2 - 4 p.m.
Location: Latinx Resource Center (C-2340)

Dive into the world of Alebrijes, the fantastical creatures of Mexican folklore, at our hands-on coloring workshop!

Alebrijes are known for their bright, bold colors and imaginative designs. Whether you're an experienced artist or just looking to explore your creativity, this workshop is the perfect place to express your artistic side.


OCTOBER 1
Color, Culture, Community: Come see the new Latinx Resource Center Mural!

Time: 12 - 3 p.m.
Location: Latinx Resource Center (C-2340)

Swing by the Latinx Resource Center and post a picture on social media with the hashtag #HHMGovState for entry to win various prizes. This stunning piece of art celebrates the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and unity of the Latinx community.


OCTOBER 3
“Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together” Hispanic Heritage Month Symposium

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Hall of Honors

Join us for this dynamic edutainment event celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Highlights of the day include renowned speakers, television personalities, an engaging student panel, a mural display, music, and ethnic foods.   For more information, a full schedule, and to RSVP, visit the DEI webpage.


OCTOBER 3
Chicago Samba, Sounds of Brazil

Time: 12 - 1 p.m.
Location: Hall of Governors

Experience the vibrant history of Brazil through this exhilarating musical performance! "Sounds of Brazil" narrates the nation's rich past, from its indigenous roots and the arrival of colonizers to the era of slavery and the cultural evolution that followed.

Immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms and melodies that define Brazilian heritage, complete with the authentic sounds of Brazil mixed with the flavor of Carnival. Featuring a unique mix of Brazilian popular song styles, including Samba, Bossa Nova, Brazilian Jazz, Olodum, Forro, Chorinho, Pagode, and Batucada just like Carnival in Rio de Janeiro! Attendees will enjoy a dance lesson following the performance.


OCTOBER 9
Noche de Cine/ Movie Night

Time: 4:30 - 7 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall

Join us for a screening of the film Machuca (Dir. Andrés Wood, 2004 Chile 2h1m), followed by a brief discussion of its themes. This screening is part of the class Memory and Film in Post-Dictatorial Spain and Latin America. Sponsored by the Division of Arts and Letters, Humanities Unit.

Film Synopsis: Pedro (Ariel Mateluna), who comes from modest means, gets a free ride to an elite Catholic boarding school run by the forward-thinking Father McEnroe (Ernesto Malbran). Gonzalo (Matías Quer), one of the wealthy boys at the school, quickly takes a shine to Pedro, and the two become fast friends. But as the boys spend more time with one another, their relationship is strained by the turbulent social and political upheaval happening in their native Chile.


OCTOBER 14
The Transformative Power of Music and Advocacy

Time: 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall

As a DREAMer Gustavo Moradel is passionate about advocating for human rights, immigration reform, and civil and political rights. Come hear his personal story, the nuances of immigration policy, and how music can be used as a tool for building empathy. Light refreshments served. Registration requested on Jaguar Connection.


OCTOBER 15
Cafe y Conchas

Time: 12 - 1 p.m. & 4 - 6 p.m.
Location: D1496

Stop by to make a Peruvian Friendship Bracelet while enjoying coffee and pastries. Sponsored by Kaleidoscope Service Council and Association of Latin American Students (ALAS).


LGBTQ+ History Month 2024

LGBTQ Banner

LGBTQ+ History Month is a time to honor the trailblazers who have fought for equality and to remember the significant moments that have shaped LGBTQ+ Rights. Each October, GovState recognizes LGBTQ+ History Month and sponsors a series of events that highlight and celebrate LGBTQ+ communities through programming, visibility campaigns and educational events.

Calendar of Events

 

LGBTQ+ Display
October 2024
B Wing Display Case
Visit the visual display to learn about notable LGBTQ+ champions who have led the charge to spread love and understanding.

Rainbow Resources
October 2nd, Noon – 1:30pm
D Wing Atrium
Kick-off LGBTQ+ History Month with the Center for Student Engagement and Intercultural Programs! This event features light refreshments, activities, connection and LGBTQ+ resources. Students are also encouraged to learn about the upcoming Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) Club. Sponsored by the Center for Student Engagement and Intercultural Programs.

DEI Lunch and Learn
October 9th, 12:30pm – 1:15pm
D34011
How to Support LGBTQ+ Students
DEIB Lunch and Learn sessions are the perfect format for safe and brave conversations where participants can speak freely. Please visit the DEI website to RSVP.

National Coming Out Day
October 11th, Noon – 2pm
Lakeside Lounge
National Coming Out Day is an annual celebration observed on October 11th serving as a symbol of love, acceptance, and support for LGBTQ+ individuals within Gov State. Join the Student Activities Council in celebration of coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) or as an ally. Light refreshments served.

Transgender Day of Remembrance at GovState
October 16th, 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Engbretson Hall
Transgender Day of Remembrance is dedicated to acknowledging transgender people and their contributions. Join the Center for Student Engagement and Intercultural Programs in recognizing transgender individuals whose lives were lost. Allies and friends are welcome. Light refreshments and flameless candles provided.

Drag Bingo
October 22nd at 7:00pm
Hall of Honors
Drag Bingo is a fun and fabulous take on a favorite game that everyone can win. Whether you're a bingo newbie or a seasoned pro, come strut your stuff, win big, and enjoy a night of glitz, glam and good times! Enjoy snacks, prizes, and performances by local drag queens! Sponsored the Center for Student Engagement and Intercultural Programs.

Safe Zone Training Part I
October 24th, 1:00pm – 2:30 pm
Engbretson Hall
Safe Zone is a training program designed to raise awareness about the dynamics of gender and sexual orientation while exploring different ways to embody inclusive allyship for people of all orientations, genders, sexualities, identities, and levels of being out. Please visit the DEI website to RSVP by October 22.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show
October 25th at 7:30pm
Center for Performing Arts
Let’s do the Time Warp again! One of the oddest cult films ever made, this kinky, rock'n'roll, science fiction, horror satire is the perfect night out for all! Whether it’s your first or 1000th time seeing Rocky Horror on the big screen, you’ll shiver with antici...pation! Come as you are or come dressed in character to participate in the zany movie musical where you are part of the action. “Don’t Dream It. Be It!”
Student Tickets: $10; Faculty/Staff Tickets: $22

31 Days, 31 Icons
October 31 Virtual Event

 

LGBTHistoryMonth.com recognizes the achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender icons. Log-on to learn about the significant contributions and achievements of featured members of the LGBT community.

Questions?

Email us at CSEIP@govst.edu.

SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.