The university's celebration of the history and traditions of its different cultural groups began this week with the opening of Hispanic Heritage Celebration, which runs until mid-October.

The month's events are sponsored by the Latin American Student Organization and several Hispanic and multicultural fraternities and sororities, according to Pam Peters, assistant dean for intercultural programs.

Hispanic Heritage Celebration "introduces and exposes the students to a variety of cultures," Peters said. "It gives them the chance to broaden (their) horizons."

The variety of events will introduce students to many different aspects of the Hispanic culture. College of Health Sciences freshman Jose Sierra said he was particularly excited about the salsa and merengue dance lessons, which took place Tuesday, as well as a jalapeño eating contest on Oct. 7.

Natalie Alamo, a freshman in the College of Communication, said she was looking forward to attending the dance lessons.

Other events include a perfomance by Uruguay performing group Los Gauchos de Roldan and a presentation by Fernando Chavez, son of Hispanic civil rights leader Caesar Chavez.

Los Gauchos de Roldan is a group of experienced dancers and musicians currently on tour in the United States, Peters said. The group explains the roots of its style an music as it performs, she said.

The group will perform Sept. 22 on West Town Mall from 5 to 6 p.m.

One event that touches on the history of Hispanics is Fernando Chavez's speech, which will take place Oct. 11 in the Alumni Memorial Union ballrooms. Chavez will come to speak to the community about his father and how he displayed the importance of learning and responsibility, Peters said.

This article was published in The Marquette Tribune on September 15, 2005.