For Gannon’s Fall 2023 Speaker Series the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences celebrated Hispanic Heritage with Mambo. 

Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration that recognizes the countless contributions of more than 60 million Hispanic Americans, Latinos, Latinas, and Latinx-identifying people to our culture and society. This year Hispanic Heritage Month occurred from September 15th until Sunday October 15th. 

The observation was first established in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson but it was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. The celebration was enacted into law on August 17th, 1988. 

On Monday, October 9th students, faculty, and staff joined together to immerse themselves in the rich and vibrant culture of Latin music to embrace and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Erie’s local band, “Mambo.” 

Participants were brought on a journey through Latin rhythms. Participants were exposed to all kinds of music from Latin jazz to salsa, merengue, and rock for an unforgettable experience. 

The band “Mambo” is a Latin jazz, salsa, merengue, and Latin rock band that is local to the Erie area and is a hidden gem to the local community. Previously they have performed at Celebrate Erie, the 814-music series, and Blues of Shoes. 

Band members include Julio Quezada on Latin guitar, Bob Seaman on bass and vocals, vocalist extraordinaire Cristina DiFranco, Carlos Cruz on congas and bongos and Phil Papotnik on saxophone. 

In our journey toward understanding ourselves and the ever-changing world, it is crucial to explore the diverse traditions that add meaning to our lives. Events will bring our campus and community together as we hear diverse perspectives, engage in new experiences, and encourage advocacy, action, and self-expression.