In 1988, a small group of Latinos started to meet in a supportive social setting and began inviting others to join them. They were lead by Cesar Murillo (deceased in the September 11th attacks) and Philip Gonzalez. With the encouragement of the Office of Multicultural Affairs, they decided to pursue Student Government Association recognition and began the process of defining themselves as an official organization. After drafting a constitution that was approved in November of 1989, Philip Gonzalez was named president with Pamela K. Gardner as advisor of the group. Within a year, they had a budget and began to meet in the ALANA Student Center.

Alianza won the President’s Award for Outstanding organization in 2002. “It was an incredible honor because it validated all the hard work we put into educating about and celebrating our culture”, explains Nathaly Filion, member of alianza for four years. “There are several countries that make up our latino identity, and we work to expand what it means to be alianza latina”.

We are currently celebrating our 3rd Latino Heritage Month (LHM), which happens from mid September through mid October. LHM’s last event is the now traditional Noche de Cultura, a night of authentic food, poetry, and dance. This year we are delighted to have Mr. Bonafide Rojas, a recognized poet from the Bronx who will share his works with us. As always, we will feature authentic, homemade Latin American entrees and desserts. And to aid your digestion a big dance party will follow, featuring the best DJ in town. All this is happening on Friday, October 15th at Marsh Dining Hall (MAT). Food will be served at 7pm, dance starts at 10. Come one come all!