Our celebration uses the term “Latinx” in the title as way to include and acknowledge the participation of students who identify as Latina, Latino, or Latinx. You may be wondering, what does the “x” stand for? Dr. Rigoberto Marquez (2018) shares that Latinx is “a political identity that centers the lived experiences of queer, non-binary, gender non-conforming/creative and/or trans* individuals”. Since Spanish is a gendered language, if we just called it “Latino Graduation”, we would be overlooking our Latina and Latinx community members. On the other hand, “Latinx Graduation” is a shorter way of including students of all gender identities and experiences. It is also a reminder that our work towards a more socially just world needs to include the recognition and affirmation of nonbinary, gender neutral, and nonconforming members in our communities.

Marquez, R. (2018). What’s in the ‘x’ of Latinx?

As part of the program, two students will be selected to speak on behalf of their class.

If you would like to be considered for this special honor, please indicate this information on the graduation application. 

What we're looking for: 

The committee is interested in a speech that will resonate with the entire audience - students, parents, and guests. The speech cannot be more than 3 minutes long. 

Eligibility requirements:  

• Submit a Latinx/a/o Graduation Application
• Be transferring, graduating, or receiving a certificate (CTE)
• Be able to attend the ceremony on April 28th, 2023 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Sexson Auditorium
• Be present at rehearsal on April 26th at 3pm
• If you indicate that you want to be considered as a student speaker, our committee will reach out to you with further instructions and details regarding how to submit your speech for review.                
• All speeches will need to be submitted by Friday, March 31st at 11:59pm
• Students will be notified if you are selected to audition in person by April 1st