CUIMC Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month on Haven Plaza

Columbia University Irving Medical Center hosted a community celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month Oct. 11 on Haven Plaza. The event aimed to highlight the contributions of the Latinx community at CUIMC and in northern Manhattan.

The event, hosted by the Latinx Employee Resource Group and the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, featured food, dancing, live music performances, and trivia. National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 and recognizes the contributions and impact generations of Hispanic Americans have made to positively influence and enrich the United States and beyond.

“Embracing and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures within our community is not only a privilege but an imperative,” says Alade McKen, chief diversity officer at CUIMC. “The Latinx community in Harlem, Washington Heights, and Inwood has played a pivotal role in shaping the vibrant tapestry of this neighborhood, and it is our honor to pay homage to their contributions. Hispanic Heritage Month is a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Latinx community, their contributions to the fields of medicine and research, and the importance of acknowledging the unique challenges this community may face in health care.”

The neighborhoods of Harlem, Washington Heights, and Inwood are known for their rich cultural history and diversity.

“The convergence of cultures in our home neighborhoods mirrors our ongoing efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion at CUIMC,” McKen says. “Our institution is committed to being a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard. By participating, we not only celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month but also deepen our understanding of the diverse perspectives that enrich our lives and work.”