The University of Texas at Austin made budget cuts that resulted in the cancellation of diversity programs, including the Latinx Graduation that celebrated the cultural heritage of Latino students. This decision was made in response to a new state law banning DEI initiatives in public colleges and universities. As a result, Latino students had to seek alternative ways to fund and host their graduation ceremony. Thanks to the support of organizations like the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and online donations, the Latinx Graduation will now take place off campus at the Austin Independent School District Performing Arts Center.
The Latinx Graduation was an important event for Latino students as it provided a platform to celebrate their bicultural heritage. The ceremony was bilingual and allowed for multiple family members to attend, featuring traditional Latino food, music, and decor that were not present in the universitywide graduations. The cancellation of this event, along with other diversity programs, forced students to scramble for funds to hold the ceremony and other related events. Alternatively, the university alumni group, Texas Exes, is hosting multicultural celebrations where families can meet and greet but not actual graduation ceremonies.
Katherine Ospina, outreach chair of Latinx Community Affairs, spearheaded efforts to secure funding for the graduation ceremony. She reached out to elected officials and Latino organizations, including LULAC, to cover costs such as security, printing, insurance, and graduation speakers. After initially falling short of their fundraising goal, they were able to secure a venue after LULAC offered to cover the costs. Additionally, the GoFundMe campaign surpassed its goal of $9,000, which will not only cover the graduation costs but also support other events that were defunded by the university such as new student orientation and leadership symposiums.
The symbolism behind the Latinx Graduation extends beyond the ceremony itself. Graduates will receive an orange chord to drape across their shoulders, representing the theme of “dreaming for better.” This color choice is inspired by the monarch butterfly, which migrates between Mexico and the U.S. and is often used as a symbol of hope and resilience in the immigrant community. By continuing the Latinx Graduation despite the challenges posed by funding cuts and the anti-DEI law, students are reaffirming their commitment to a better future for themselves and their communities.
Domingo García, president of LULAC, emphasized the importance of recognizing students’ heritage and culture through events like the Latinx Graduation. He criticized the Texas anti-DEI law as regressive and xenophobic, noting that LULAC’s founders fought for civil rights and equal treatment for Mexican Americans in the U.S. García sees supporting events like the Latinx Graduation as a way to celebrate the legacy of LULAC and empower the next generation of Latino students who are making their mark in business, education, and government. By intervening to ensure that Latino students can celebrate their achievements and honor their cultural heritage, organizations like LULAC are helping to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students at the University of Texas and beyond.
