Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month is celebrated nationwide from September 15 – October 15 each year, and the City of Atlanta joined partners and community members for special celebratory events.
Stories tell us who we are: A Hispanic Heritage Month Story Hour
The Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs (MOIIA) teamed up with the Fulton County Library System to host a second Story Hour event this year, this time in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. The event took place at the Martin Luther King, Jr. branch and welcomed 67 first-grade students from Hope-Hill Elementary School.
Students participated in a morning of Spanish-language activities, coloring, and exciting stories written by Latinx authors. In alignment with Mayor Dickens’ Year of the Youth initiative, the Story Hour introduced students to a new language and unique elements of culture. From Cuban ropa vieja and the Colombian ruana, to the importance of family and more, students learned about food, traditions, and shared cultural values.
As part of the program, MOIIA developed a booklist of children’s picture books written by Hispanic and Latinx authors. Find the full reading list here, and explore new stories, all available at your local Fulton County Library branch.
An evening of reflection: Vamos ATL
The Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs partnered with the City’s Department of City Planning to host a panel discussion, titled “Vamos ATL— Honoring Hispanic & Latine Placemakers and Economic Growth Builders.” Vamos ATL highlighted the influence and contributions of Latine and Hispanic community members in Atlanta’s cultural and economic landscape, specifically in the areas of music, art, sports, and entrepreneurship. Moderated by Laura Murvartian of Arte GA, the discussion featured 4 panelists: Patricia Hernandez (PATL.SV and Nuestra Creación), Sergio López-Ríos (Soccer in the Streets), Margarita Rios (OYE Fest), and Ivan Solis (Recuerdos Cafe).
Hearing from City of Atlanta leaders: Voices of the City
MOIIA joined the City’s Department of Human Resources (DHR) for a special Hispanic Heritage Month edition of their Voices of the City, a lunch-and-learn series designed to create space for connection among City leaders and employees.
MOIIA Executive Director Paulina Guzman and Invest Atlanta President and CEO Dr. Eloisa Klementich participated in a fireside chat, moderated by DHR Deputy Commissioner Kimberly Finley. During the discussion, both shared how personal experiences as Latina leaders have shaped their approach to supporting the City of Atlanta’s Hispanic and Latinx communities.
Latinx Pride returns to City Hall
The Latino Community Fund- Georgia brought their 3rd annual Orgullo Latinx Pride reception back to City Hall for Latinx Heritage Month. This evening celebrated the intersection of Latinx and LGBTQ+ identities, with a festive program of music, food, and performances.
Mexican Independence Day
The Mayor’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs (MOIIA) teamed up with the Consulate General of Mexico to celebrate the 215th Anniversary of Mexican Independence. A special reception at City Hall brought together families, dignitaries, local leaders, and community members for an evening of culture and community. The program featured a mariachi performance, a welcome from Mayor Andre Dickens, and the traditional El Grito ceremony, performed by Atlanta’s newest Consul General of Mexico, Mr. Rafael Laveaga. The event also welcomed 13 Young Middle School students and their ESOL teachers, who toured City Hall and enjoyed the evening’s festivities. Atlanta City Council also issued a proclamation recognizing the significant occasion.
