An Exploration of the Hispanic Culture and Latino Community at UD

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A Group of UD Hispanic, First-Gen Students. Photo Courtesy of Judith Barrera.

The Hispanic culture and Latino community here at UD is a vibrant and diverse group. Its presence may seem subtle, but the community is active all over campus,  participating in the clubs and events at UD, gaining leadership positions, and organizing different projects in the form of peer mentor groups.

The presence of Latinos in the UD community encourages a larger interest in Hispanic culture. Examples of this can be found in the cafe’s themed days of “Cinco de Mayo” and “Dia de Los Muertos” and the events of the Spanish Club like Mate Mondays. 

The classes offered by the History and Spanish departments are other chances for UD students to learn more. Classes like History of Mexico and History of Latin America serve not only to teach those not of Hispanic heritage but also allow opportunities for Latino students to stay connected with and expand on their culture.

As a Mexican who was never formally taught Spanish as a child, the Department of Modern Languages’ in Spanish language, grammar, and culture help me to stay connected with my heritage. 

A Group of UD Hispanic, First-Gen Students. Photo Courtesy of Judith Barrera.

Furthermore, it is a joy to see students of different backgrounds come to these classes and attempt to learn more about things that, to me, would seem ordinary and unexciting. 

The influence of the Latino community is significant and shapes the culture of UD itself, such as through the Our Lady of Guadalupe statue.  

Judith Barrera from UD’s Academic Success Office and Elena Romero, a Junior Spanish major with a Drama concentration, gives some insights into the importance of the Guadalupe statue:

“It [the statue] highlights that UD recognizes the importance of coming together for one cause/purpose no matter your background. One of the reasons why Our Lady of Guadalupe is important in the Mexican Catholic community is because she showed the indigenous community that anyone, no matter skin tone or ethnic background, can be an important figure in the Catholic church. Our Lady of Guadalupe shows us that people from different backgrounds have a powerful voice and can impact their community… UD sees the value that they [Hispanic students] bring to the table… As a UD alum, seeing the statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe reminds me that even though I might stand out or be a pioneer, my work and what I do for the UD community might be part of a bigger change I don’t see now. That is a message I want to make sure all Hispanic students understand; your ideas, different perspectives, and backgrounds are part of an initiative that shapes our UD community, local area, and country in a positive way even if you don’t see it now,” Barrera said of the statue.

“Having a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a figure so important in Hispanic culture and Mexican history, on campus is really special for me. I love going and praying the rosary in front of the beautiful statue, who is a mother for many of us at the University of Dallas…. Our Lady of Guadalupe means everything in Mexican culture and tradition… the Marian statue on campus is wonderful because it unites all the different cultures under our Catholic identity. You don’t have to be Mexican to know the beauty and grace associated with Our Lady of Guadalupe, but it means so much more that she was the one chosen for our campus,” Romero said.

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