New urban bilingual 4-H program coordinator shares ways to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month
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EmailMSU Extension staff, like Adriana Sierra Ramirez, work to provide support for all youth and their families so they can take an active part in programs. She shares more about her work and ways you can celebrate Hispanic heritage.
National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Hispanic individuals who have inspired us all. The month begins on September 15, a date chosen for its significance: five Latin American countries—Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua—gained their independence on this day in 1821. Initially established as a week-long celebration under President Lyndon Johnson, it was later expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.
There are many ways to honor the contributions of Hispanic/Latinx communities in the U.S. These include participating in flag-raising ceremonies, hosting potlucks featuring Hispanic dishes, and exploring Hispanic popular culture through movies, music, and art.
Adriana Sierra Ramirez, an urban bilingual 4-H program coordinator in Kent County, recently started in her role and shares her ideas for celebrating this month. Primarily working with diverse communities, including the Hispanic community, Ramirez focuses on outreach efforts that encourage learning about different countries and their culture.
“We are planning a multicultural club called ‘Games Around the World,’” says Ramirez. “In each of our six sessions, we'll introduce a game from a different country, allowing participants to engage with various cultures in an interactive way. We’ll also take part in events specifically for Hispanic Heritage Month.”
Ramirez has been involved in numerous outreach events celebrating Hispanic culture, such as the Grand Rapids Hispanic Fest held in early August. Her work extends beyond the month’s festivities; she aims to connect Hispanic/Latinx cultures with resources and programs that enhance their daily lives.
“I collaborate on marketing materials in both Spanish and English,” she explains. “This helps break down language barriers and allows the Hispanic community to learn about the programs and resources we offer.”
One of her key initiatives this past year has been collaborating on a bilingual 4-H program brochure. Ramirez emphasizes that offering programming in multiple languages helps youth and their families feel more included. When youth and their families feel included, they are more willing to participate.
“At many open houses I attend, I can communicate directly with parents, so students don’t have to act as interpreters,” she says. “This focus allows students to engage more fully with the community.”
MSU Extension is dedicated to ensuring accessibility for all. We provide Spanish translation services through partnerships with 7CLingo and the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan, offering interpreters for both virtual and in-person programs. Resources such as Michigan Fresh, information about SNAP-Ed benefits, and Michigan 4-H forms are also available in Spanish on our website.
