Hispanic Heritage Month Events
Book Lists
Hispanic American Heritage Month Non-Fiction Reading List
Essential Fiction Reads for Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage in California and the Bay Area
Get Cooking for Hispanic Heritage Month!
Mateo Campos-Seligman
"In turbulent times such as these, I find comfort in looking back throughout history to other moments of upheaval in the face of injustice – specifically, at movements led by young people calling for change in the face of systemic oppression."
Dr. Liladhar R. Pendse, Oakland History Center
"As we celebrate Hispanic American Heritage Month, it’s a good time to reflect on the powerful legacy preserved in the Oakland History Center (OHC) and the Magazines and Newspapers department's collection of Hispanic American newspapers at the Main Library in Downtown Oakland. These publications aren’t just old headlines—they’re living records of the voices, struggles, and triumphs of the Bay Area’s Latino communities."
Isaiah Hurtado
"Today, lucha libre crosses borders. It has influenced professional wrestling in the United States and inspired fans all over the world. But few matches can match the energy of Mexican arenas like Arena México in Mexico City."
The César E. Chávez Library Branch in Oakland’s Fruitvale district—once known as the Latin American branch—was the first in the nation dedicated to serving the Spanish-speaking community. For decades, it has been a hub for culture, learning, and activism. In 2023, the library unveiled a digital archive of its remarkable poster collection, Graphic Power: Celebrating 50 Years of Community Posters, giving new life to these historic works and returning them to the community in a modern, accessible way.
Resources
MakeMake
Indigenous & Native Language Movies
Pronunciator
Ancestry Library
The Oakland History Center preserves the city’s history through newspapers, photos, and oral histories, highlighting its diverse communities. During Hispanic Heritage Month, we spotlight the stories of local Hispanic residents. Visit the History Center at Main Library to explore the collection.
A Glimpse of Everyday Life
Uncover newspaper clippings, flyers, and neighborhood newsletters capturing Oakland life. From parks and schools to local music, City Council, industry, Lake Merritt, and the vibrant Latino communities that shaped the city.
Community Newspapers
Dive into our collection of East Bay published papers including:
- La Voz del Pueblo (1970–72)
- El Mundo (1970–78), preserving local voices and Latino culture.
- San Antonio Unity (2001-08; incomplete run)
