Friday, September 15, 2023
Dear Colleagues,
Starting on September 15th, OCC will commence its celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Throughout this month-long observance, we pay tribute to the profound influence and invaluable contributions of Hispanic and Latinx individuals and communities across generations within the United States. One such individual that OCC honors is Sylvia Mendez, an OCC alum, of Mendez v. Westminster, et.al, whose family was one of the families that spearheaded this hallmark case that led to the desegregation of schools in California. The Coast CCD Board of Trustees further reaffirmed this recognition through the adoption of a resolution in support of including “oral or video history of the people who were involved in the case and efforts they made in the civil rights movement” (Resolution #23-22). To read more about this case and Sylvia’s connection with Orange Coast College, please read the OCC Magazine.
As an institution deeply committed to principles of equity and inclusivity, we recognize that "Hispanic" does not encompass the entirety of this multifaceted culture, which draws from indigenous peoples residing across multiple continents. This intricate and interwoven heritage includes a wide array of languages, customs, and traditions, all of which warrant acknowledgment during the observance of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Additionally, some may wonder what sets "Hispanic" apart from "Latinx." In truth, the web of identities encapsulated by these terms is intricate and expansive. For instance, "Latinx" emerges as a gender-neutral or nonbinary alternative to the traditional designations of Latino or Latina.
OCC takes great pride in its designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), a recognition bestowed by the U.S. Department of Education upon institutions with an enrollment of undergraduate full-time equivalent students comprising at least 25 percent Hispanic. Our Hispanic and Latinx students, dedicated classified professionals, faculty members, and managers are integral to the vibrant and caring community that defines our college.
To commemorate this month, the OCC CLEEO project is offering screenings of the movies Stand and Deliver and East Side Sushi as part of its Latinidad Heritage Celebration.
I look forward to seeing you at these events!
