Sociocultural Programming
Our mission is to provide events, activities and leadership development opportunities for the campus community designed to increase awareness and understanding of diverse identities, social justice and urban issues.
Our programming explores and celebrates differences and commonalities related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, spirituality, cognitive and physical ability, socioeconomic status and more. We work in collaboration with student organizations, academic departments, campus resource centers, and the Milwaukee community.
Here, we push you to become more than great. Whether it be using the power of your voice at Lyrical Sanctuary, completing our Lead the Change social justice leadership development workshop series, or just simply sharing a space with us, we invite you to attend as many of our events as possible!
Highlights & Events
Musical performance by Pulpa de Guayaba.
“I can see myself in all things and all people around me.”
Latine Heritage Month
National Latine Heritage Month, observed in the U.S. from September 15th to October 15th since 1988, honors the independence days of several countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Chile, as well as Día de la Raza, a significant cultural celebration in many Latin American countries.
At UWM, Latine Heritage Month is coordinated by campus stakeholders who offer programs recognizing the history, culture, and contributions of people of Latine, Afro-Latinx, Chicanx, Latin American, Caribbean, Spanish, and Indigenous descent in the U.S.
The term “Latine” (La-tee-ney) is inclusive of all gender identities, explicitly acknowledging and refusing to erase Trans, gender non-conforming, non-binary, and genderqueer individuals while focusing on the Spanish language.
Black History Month
Black History Month, observed in February, honors the legacy of Black liberation, love, and excellence. Originating as Black History Week in 1926, it was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1970, thanks to Dr. Woodson G. Carter, who initially chose the birth week of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
At UWM, Black History Month is coordinated by campus stakeholders who offer programs recognizing and celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of Black people. This month pays respect to those who have paved the way for current and future generations, empowering the present and inspiring a better, Blacker tomorrow.
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage
Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is observed in the United States during the month of May. In 2023, a team of UWM campus stakeholders collaborated to create a calendar of programs leading up to AAPI Heritage Month. These programs were designed to showcase and celebrate the diverse cultures and identities within the AAPI communities.
The mission of this calendar is to recognize and honor the historical and cultural contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. By offering a variety of events and activities, UWM aims to celebrate the rich cultures and identities of the AAPI communities, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation within the campus and beyond. This initiative not only highlights the achievements and heritage of AAPI individuals but also promotes a sense of unity and inclusion at UWM.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
- ACLU
- African Diaspora Committee
- Alumni Association
- American Geographical Society Library
- Black Student Cultural Center
- Black Student Union
- Campus Activities Board
- Center for 21st Century Studies
- Centers for Advocacy and Student Engagement
- Chi Sigma Tau
- Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization
- Honors College Equity Team
- Inclusive Excellence Center
- Institute of World Affairs
- Latino American Unida Fraternity
- Latinx Student Union
- Leaders Igniting Transformation
- LGBTQ+ Resource Center
- Lubar Entrepreneurship Center
- Military and Veterans Resource Center
- Women’s Resource Center