From September 15 to October 15, communities across the country celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. This is a time to honor history, music, food, storytelling, and the countless contributions of Hispanic and Latino people. This year’s national theme, “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future,” feels especially fitting for Wheeling, where the YWCA is teaming up with the ACLU of West Virginia, the Ohio County Public Library, and Nail City Records to host a series of free community events. Each gathering reflects the idea of honoring the past while inspiring a brighter, more connected future.
Stories, Songs, and Conversations at the Library
At the Ohio County Public Library on September 24th at 6 PM, families can take part in an interactive Story Time designed for students in grades K–5. Through books, songs, and crafts, children will explore Hispanic culture in a way that connects them to traditions of the past while sparking creativity for the future, a true expression of collective heritage.
The Library will also host Lunch With Books on October 2nd at Noon, featuring Jackie Lozano, Immigrants’ Rights Campaign Coordinator for the ACLU of West Virginia. Lozano will lead an open discussion on immigration and the deportation crisis facing the country. By engaging with present-day challenges while learning from past struggles, this conversation honors the theme of building a more inclusive and just future together. Guests are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch, complimentary beverages will be provided, and the program will be livestreamed.
Music, Food, and Community at Nail City
On October 9th at 6 PM, Nail City Records will host a Listening Party that celebrates the wide-ranging contributions of Hispanic and Latino musicians. The event will also welcome poets, authors, and performers eager to share their voices. In the spirit of community, the evening doubles as a potluck dinner featuring Hispanic and Latino-inspired dishes. Just as recipes are passed down through generations, this shared meal reflects the essence of collective heritage — gathering around food, music, and storytelling to honor the past while strengthening bonds for the future. Attendees are invited to bring a dish; to sign up, email cdcdirector@ywcawheeling.org for the Google form link.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future in Wheeling
“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and resilience of Hispanic and Latino communities,” said Ron Scott Jr., Cultural Diversity Director at YWCA Wheeling. “We are honored to partner with local organizations to offer these opportunities for learning, celebration, and connection.”
“Events like these highlight the power of storytelling and community engagement,” added Liz Handzus, Marketing Director of YWCA Wheeling. “By coming together to share music, food, and dialogue, we create meaningful connections and honor the diverse cultures that strengthen our community.”
YWCA Wheeling invites everyone to take part in these gatherings. Each one is a reminder that collective heritage is not just about honoring the past — it’s about inspiring the future we create together. All programs are free and open to the public. For more details, visit www.ywcawheeling.org or follow YWCA Wheeling on Facebook.
