Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at UTA Libraries (2024)

Hispanic Heritage Month honors the contributions and achievements of Hispanic Americans and the lasting impact they have made. For many, this monthlong celebration is about remembering their roots and giving thanks to those who came before. 

Leyla Bunster, Manager for Research Success, shared that her grandmother had a tremendous impact on her life. Growing up, Leyla got to know her grandmother through regular visits. 

“My mom’s family is all in Mexico. When summertime came around, I knew it was time to see my grandmother. So, a large part of my childhood was spent in Mexico,” Leyla said. “My grandmother would tell me about the celebrations they would have in their house and the meals they would make.” 

Leyla stated that during each visit with her grandmother, she told her stories about growing up, shared her family history, and shared the food that brought everyone together. 

“I would always beg her to make me something simple. I always wanted chorizo with eggs and beans, all scrambled. It didn’t matter if it was morning time or lunchtime. I always wanted that and her homemade flour tortillas. That was my go-to meal,” Leyla said. “If she came to stay with us for a few weeks, I would ask her to please make that for me. All of the simple dishes were my favorite.” 

Sandra Navarro, a Library Specialist in Stacks Management, echoed Leyla’s feelings about the importance of family and the role they have played in a person’s life. For Sandra, one of those family members is her mom, who shows her love for her family through cooking. 

“Food is a huge thing that connects us. Most of the time on Sundays, my mom would make mole, a chicken dish covered in thick sauce with more than 100 ingredients, including chocolate,” Sandra said. “It is an entire day thing that mom would do after church. She is really big on feeding us.” 

Navarro, whose family is from Zacatecas, Mexico, also connects with her culture and her mom by speaking Spanish at home. Speaking in Spanish daily helps her strengthen her ties with her roots and her relationship with her mom. 

Leyla and Sandra encourage people to learn more about the different Hispanic countries with rich histories and cultures through the resources at UTA Libraries. However, books can only tell people part of the story. They also encourage people to start conversations. 

“I think that the most authentic way would be speaking with the people from any Latin culture,” Sandra said. “Engage with them authentically. If you are curious, ask them questions because I am almost positive they would love to explain their traditions, family and food, but be respectful.” 

Visit the UTA website for more information about the events that take place on campus during Hispanic Heritage Month. Stop by UTA Libraries or visit the Libraries’ website to explore the available resources.