Despite cuts to diversity programs at the University of Texas at Austin that left the Latinx Graduation unfunded, the event will go forward thanks to the intervention of the League of United Latin American Citizens and online donations. The cancellation of Latinx Graduation and other diversity-based ceremonies came as part of the university’s removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives following a state law banning such programs in public colleges and universities. In addition to Latinx Graduation, other events such as Black Graduation, GraduAsian, and the Lavender Graduation were also defunded. These ceremonies had been important in celebrating the bicultural heritage of many graduates and providing a unique experience that was not present in traditional graduation ceremonies.
Latino students lamented the elimination of the Latinx Graduation, which included bilingual elements and allowed for multiple family members to attend. The event featured Latino food, music, and decor that were not part of the universitywide or individual school graduations. Latino programs and events, along with venues like the Multicultural Engagement Center, were crucial in recruiting, retaining, and graduating Latino students, particularly at a university that had previously lagged in enrolling Hispanic students. Following the cancellations, students hoped to hold the events in alternative venues and find ways to fundraise, but initial attempts to secure private donations fell short. However, efforts by Latinx Community Affairs, which had been defunded by the university, led to a successful crowdfunding campaign that met the $9,000 goal and secured the necessary funds to hold the Latinx Graduation.
Katherine Ospina, outreach chair of Latinx Community Affairs, spearheaded the fundraising efforts by reaching out to elected officials and Latino organizations, including LULAC. The funds raised covered various expenses for the graduation ceremony, including security, printing, insurance, and graduation speakers. The group was able to secure a discounted venue thanks to the support of Austin elected officials and LULAC. As a symbol of unity and resilience, this year’s Latinx graduates will be given orange chords to wear during the ceremony, representing the theme of “dreaming for better.” The success of the crowdfunding campaign not only secured the funds for the graduation but also provided resources to support future events that were impacted by the university’s defunding of diversity programs.
Domingo García, president of LULAC, expressed support for the students and the importance of celebrating their cultural heritage, particularly as many of them are first-generation college graduates. García criticized the state law banning DEI initiatives as regressive and xenophobic, highlighting the ongoing fight for civil rights and equal treatment within the Latinx community. LULAC, founded in 1929, has a long history of advocating for Latino civil rights and equal opportunities. García emphasized the significance of supporting these young graduates and their contributions to the future of America in various sectors such as business, education, and government. By stepping in to ensure the continuation of the Latinx Graduation and other diversity-based events, LULAC continues its mission of empowering and advocating for the Latino community.
Overall, the resilience and determination of Latino students at the University of Texas at Austin, along with the support of organizations like LULAC, have allowed the Latinx Graduation and other diversity-based ceremonies to continue despite challenges from the university’s defunding of DEI programs. The successful crowdfunding campaign not only secured funds for the graduation but also provided resources for future events that were impacted by the cuts. By celebrating their cultural heritage and supporting each other, these students demonstrate the importance of unity and perseverance in the face of adversity. LULAC’s intervention serves as a testament to the ongoing fight for civil rights and equal representation within the Latino community, highlighting the importance of recognizing and celebrating diversity in educational institutions and beyond.
