Cultural History & Heritage Celebrations

Throughout the academic year we strive to increase awareness, celebrate cultures and traditions, and honor the legacies of leaders who challenge us to have respect and empathy for all. In collaboration with student organizations, departments, community organizations and local universities, we work to create an environment of inclusive excellence that explores, rather than consumes the lived experiences, narratives and counter-narratives that make us unique.

Latinx/e Heritage Month

Also referred to as National Hispanic Heritage Month, is celebrated annually throughout the United States from September 15 through October 15. During this time we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of all who identify as part of the Latin diaspora.

  • Academic Cultural Programs
  • Co-Curricular Cultural Programs
  • Student Cultural Programs
    • Festival Latinx: This event takes place in spring and focuses on celebrating and highlighting the cultural contributions of particular Latin American countries. Lectures, films, dances, a food festival and receptions are sponsored by various Latin American student organizations including Generating Excellence Now and Tomorrow in Education (GENTE) in commemoration of Latin culture.

National Native American Heritage Month

Also referred to as National American Indian Heritage Month, is celebrated in November of each year. During this time we work to honor the history of those who were here long before 1492 and thrive today. Indigenous communities inform our sustainable practices and show us how to decolonize our lives and we seek to center their contributions to the world daily starting with the National Day of Mourning in October

  • Academic Cultural Programs
  • Co-Curricular Cultural Programs
  • Student Cultural Programs

Black History Month

Also referred to as African American History Month, is celebrated each February. During this time we focus on uplifting the experiences of Black people in the United States and throughout the African diaspora starting with MLK Day of Service in January. We work to honor the labor and triumphs of Black people around the world. See this year's BHM events

  • Academic Cultural Programs
  • Co-Curricular Cultural Programs
    • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service: In collaboration with other universities in the New Orleans community, we host an annual day of service to honor and explore the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his work as a civil rights leader in the United States. Students from each campus come together to volunteer at a variety of sites throughout the city and return to reflect on the meaning of Dr. King's work.
  • Student Cultural Programs
    • Black Arts Festival: An annual series of activities to celebrate the contributions of African-American culture that is coordinated by the Tulane Black Student Union (tBSU) in collaboration with other student organizations and offices.

Women's History Month

In March of each year, we celebrate the women of our world. During this time we honor all who identify and live their lives as women. Specifically, we uplift the labor of women of color and their continued contributions to our communities.

  • Academic Cultural Programs
  • Co-Curricular Cultural Programs
    • On Being Empowered: An Annual Luncheon for faculty, staff, students, and alumni who identify as women of color. Each year we come together to celebrate the strength and resilience of a community of women who are though leaders, scholars, and so much more.
  • Student Cultural Programs

Arab American Heritage Month

Since the 1990's various communities across the nation have commemorated Arab American Heritage Month during the month of April. As of 2019, 26 states have issued proclamations acknowledging this heritage month. Nine members of congress currently support this as a national celebratory month. Starting in the 2019-2020 academic year, we will formally honor the contributions of the Arab community throughout the world. It is our hope to set the standard in countering the narratives that marginalize, with stories that empower, uplift, and humanize all who make our society diverse. 

  • Academic Cultural Programs
  • Co-Curricular Cultural Programs
    • Ramadan Iftars: Each year we come together to share the practice of breaking the fast during Ramadan. As this day moves throughout the year, it is important to note the intersection of Arab culture and Islamic culture.
  • Student Cultural Programs

Asian & Pacific American Heritage Month

In May of 2019 we will honor the contributions of both the Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Throughout the month we will focus on celebrating the achievements of communities that enlighten the world through art, spirituality, philosophy and so much more. We will uplift the narratives of individuals who exhibit leadership, tenacity, and so much more.  

  • Academic Cultural Programs
  • Co-Curricular Cultural Programs
  • Student Cultural Programs
    • CelebrAsian Week: Sponsored by Asian American Students United (AASU), the event strives to give the campus community an opportunity to understand and appreciate a variety of Asian cultures and customs. Activities during the week include lectures, forums, exhibits, a fashion show and a food fest.

Pride Month

Also referred to as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month, is celebrated each June. During this time we focus on  uplifting the numerous contributions of marginalized people of color who contributed to the movement for civil rights in the queer community. 

  • Academic Cultural Programs
  • Co-Curricular Cultural Programs
    • Audre Lorde Days: Tulane University's Audre Lorde Days offer multiple opportunities during spring semester for students, faculty, staff, and community members to come together to "develop tools for using human difference as a springboard for creative change.
  • Student Cultural Programs