Speaker on U.S. Latino Religions Monday for Latino History Month

Gaston Espinoza of the Claremont McKenna College Philosophy and Religious Studies Department in California will speak on “Demographic Shifts in U.S. Latino Religions” at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 17, as part of Latino History Month at Illinois State University.

His talk, which will take place in the Circus Room of Bone Student Center, is free and open to the public.  It will be based on his 2006 national study of “Hispanic Churches in American Public Life.”

Another highlight of Latino History Month will be an appearance by Achy Obejas, Chicago Tribune culture writer and one of American’s best-known Cuban writers.  There will be a reading of Obejas’ creative work at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26, in the University Galleries.  Obejas herself will speak on “Dislocation and Identity” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27, in room 357 of the College of Business Building.  Both are free and open to the public.

Other events during the month’s celebration include a panel discussion on “Reinventing Cuba: Accounts and Images of Cuban Life” at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 19, in the third floor east lounge of Bone Student Center; and the Diversity Advocacy 20th anniversary open house from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at the Intercultural Programs and Services Building, located at the corner of Willow and School streets.  There will be food, a tour of the offices and the chance to meet with staff, students and alumni.