Galloway, N.J. — Different countries, traditions, foods, music, histories and experiences are represented within the Hispanic community. At Stockton University’s Hispanic Heritage Month Flag Raising on Sept. 15, speakers celebrated those differences while emphasizing the connections that can build a stronger community.

That message of unity and this year’s theme, “Culture That Connects. Community That Leads,” was echoed throughout the annual ceremony at the Arts and Sciences Circle.

“I am here to talk about one thing — unity,” said Jose Morales, a Business Administration major and veteran who addressed about 60 people who gathered to kick off the month-long series of events on campus. “Unity doesn’t mean we are all the same. In fact, what makes our community so beautiful is that we all come from different backgrounds, different islands, different families, different traditions and different accents.”

Morales acknowledged that differences within the Hispanic community, including nationality, accents and even friendly debates over whose food is better, can sometimes create divisions.

“Sometimes that’s all good and fun, but we have to recognize that those differences can start to divide us,” said the first-generation student from Pleasantville. “There is already enough in this world that is trying to separate us,and we shouldn’t do it to each other. We can be proud of where we come from while recognizing what connects us.”

For David Fuentes, the dean of Stockton’s School of Education, the two ideas behind this year’s theme are inherently linked.

“I don’t think they are two separate ideas. Our culture reminds us of where we come from. Our community reminds us that we’re not doing this alone,” he said.

Fuentes told the crowd that culture connects generations, but connection by itself isn’t enough. People must do something with it, he said, and that’s where community becomes leadership.

“If you’re the first person in your family to get a certain opportunity, don’t be the last. If you figured out how to navigate the system, help somebody else navigate it. If you have a seat at the table, think about who isn’t sitting there. And if you get into the room, hold the door open,” he said.

Supporting the next generation of Hispanic students is so important, said Rosa Perez-Maldonado, assistant dean of the School of Arts and Humanities.

“Culture is not simply something we inherit. It is something we carry, something we redefine, something we share and something we leave behind for those who come after us,” she said. “Culture helps us understand where we come from. Community reminds us that we do not walk alone. And together, they give us the strength and responsibility to lead the way forward.”

Following the flag raising, students, staff and faculty were invited to the Campus Center Event Room for food and a traditional dance display by the Calpulli Mexican Dance Company.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated nationally through Oct. 15, and several events will be held on campus.

— Story by Mark Melhorn, photos by Abbigail Erbacher