Hispanic Heritage Month celebration begins

  • Published
  • By Kevin Gaddie
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs


 

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --Eglin’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration runs through Oct. 15.  This year’s theme is “Unidos: Inclusivity For a Stronger Nation.”

According to the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute, the observance coincides with many significant events for various Hispanic communities which fall within the observance period.

Hispanics have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service. They have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multi-ethnic and multicultural customs of their community.

"At Eglin, Hispanics and Latinos bring an inclusive energy to the base, that brings us together to get the mission done,” said Tech. Sgt. Carolyn Mates, project officer. “Whether it is through music, food, sports teams or even coming from the same region, there is that instant connection we make with those on Eglin and in the surrounding communities."

The following are the month’s events.  Anyone with base access can attend.

  • Opening event featuring Loteria games and cultural music - Luke's Place, Sept. 19, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Free.
  • Latin dance classes - Physical Training Building, Bldg. 720.  Sept. 20 and 27; and Oct. 4 and 11, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.  Free.
  • CDC II and III readings - Sept. 21 and 28; and Oct. 5 and 12, 9:30 a.m. Volunteers will read bilingual books to Eglin children.
  • Hispanic Heritage Fun Run – West Trail near base exchange and commissary parking lots.  Participants in the 1.5-mile run/walk are encouraged to represent a Latin country by bringing a flag and wearing a country’s colors.  Free.
  • Movie Night – Post’l Point, Oct. 7, 7 p.m.  “Encanto” is the featured movie. Free.
  • Closing event featuring fiesta theme – Luke’s Place, Oct. 14, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Free.

For more information, call 882-4149 or 883-4281.