Celebrate Women's History Month at Sac State

Celebrating Women's History Month

March marks the celebration of Women’s History Month nationally and here at Sac State. This month we honor all the different ways that women have and continue to impact our society through their endless contributions in the past, present, and future. We praise their strength, resilience, and courage that continues to break barriers and inspire generations of world-changers.

Women’s History Month began as a local celebration of Women’s History Week in Santa Rosa, California in 1978, pushed for by the Educational Task Force of Sonoma County to advocate for representation of women’s history in the K-12 curriculum. After the growth of the celebration to different cities nationwide, the National Women’s History Project fought and gained national recognition of the celebration in 1980. Seven years later, the week was expanded, and March was designated as Women’s History Month, when Congress passed Public Law 100-9. The history of the designation reminds us of the importance of highlighting and incorporating marginalized histories and figures for a more understanding and empathetic society.

Events

Throughout the month, Sacramento State will host a series of programs, events, and opportunities for learning and connection. We invite all members of our campus community to participate, reflect, and celebrate together.

• Women Who Bloomed (Hosted by the Women's Resource Center and co-hosted by CARCs)
  
  • March 10th, 11am-1pm - Cottonwood Suite, University Union
  • Women Who Bloomed is a CARC collaborative community art experience honoring women who have shaped history past, present, and emerging while creating space for students to reflect on their own journeys of growth, resilience, and leadership. Through the creation of personal flower bouquets, participants honor women who inspire them, including themselves, and contribute to a shared visual expression of collective strength, care, and legacy.
• HER Table: A Leaders Lunch (Hosted by the Women's Resource Center)
  • March 16th, 12pm-2pm - Harper Alumni Center
  • HER Table: A Leaders Lunch is a signature Women’s History Month event designed to inspire the career and leadership pathways of diverse women in the Northern California region. The luncheon fosters mentorship and networking opportunities among students, faculty, staff, and professionals. Register here.
• Periods Don't Have to be Miserable (Hosted by The PRIDE Center)
  • March 17th, 1:30-2:30pm - The Cove Kitchen, The WELL
  • This workshop explores managing menstruation discomfort and is open to all. It highlights gender-inclusivity as part of a movement to center accessibility, inclusivity, and evidence-based care. This workshop will help students learn how to manage their unique cycles. Snacks will be provided. Register here.

Resources

Sac State is dedicated to serving our woman-identifying community and providing the necessary resources and support to make them feel included and empowered on our campus. These include:

The Women's Resource Center: The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) at Sacramento State is a safe space where women-identifying students and their allies can access programming and resources from a feminist lens that centers on self-advocacy, women’s health, and career and leadership development. The WRC serves as a holistic hub for empowering and supporting students in their academic, personal, and professional journeys.

Women's and Gender Studies Department: Women’s and Gender Studies is a dynamic interdisciplinary field preparing students to be future leaders, scholars, and social justice activists. WGS is dedicated to studying the social production of gender and women’s experiences in relation to formations of sexuality, race, class, nationality, ability, ageism, and other categories of difference. The department emphasizes the importance of connecting what students learn in the classroom to political projects and personal experiences.

The PRIDE Center: The PRIDE Center provides students looking for a connection to campus with programs and events, access to resources on campus and in the community, a welcoming space, and opportunities for education about LGBTQIA communities and the intersections of many identities and experiences. The center exists to create and maintain a campus environment that is open, safe, and supportive of student diversity in the areas of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression.

The Parents and Families Program: The Parents and Families Program builds lasting relationships rooted in understanding, encouragement, and shared success. The program emphasizes that supporting one another strengthens the entire Hornet community as we work toward creating meaningful and prosperous futures for ourselves and our families. The program offers a range of events and resource sharing designed to help you build community, access support, and navigate your journey at Sacramento State. Join the hive and together, we’ll find the best strategies to thrive personally, academically, and as a family.

Student Organizations like:

• Diverse Women in Political Science
• Society of Women Engineers
• Women in Business
• Women in Construction
• Women and Gender Studies Club
• Women in Physics and Astronomy
• Women in STEM

To learn about Student Organizations, visit Campus Groups.

Employee Resource Groups like:

• Women in STEM Education
• Women of Color Collective
• Chicana y Latina Mentoring Network
• Legacy Black Women's Professional Collaborative

To learn more about Employee Resource Groups, visit the ERG Website.

We encourage you to engage with these offices, programs, and events which are vital to Sac State’s mission of inclusion and excellence, during this month and beyond.

In Community,

Your Inclusive Excellence and Student Affairs Teams

Community, Care, and Resources in a Time of International Conflict

Dear Sacramento State Community,

We are writing to you today aware that many members of our campus community are deeply affected by the ongoing military strikes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. We know that events of this magnitude — the loss of life, the fear for loved ones, and the uncertainty about what comes next — can be deeply distressing, particularly for our students, faculty, and staff with personal and cultural ties to the affected areas.

Sacramento State is a community built on dignity, belonging, and mutual care. In moments like these, that commitment matters more than ever. Whether you are worried about family members abroad, grappling with grief and fear, or simply struggling to process the weight of what is unfolding, you are not alone. We see you, and we are here.

Campus Resources for Support

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Counseling and support services for faculty and staff.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/administration-business-affairs/human-resources/employee-assistance-program.html

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
To find and connect with employee resource groups on campus.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/administration-business-affairs/human-resources/employee-resource-groups.html

Faculty Support
Faculty experiencing challenges in the classroom or needing additional support are encouraged to reach out to their department chair, Dean, or the Vice Provost for Faculty Success for guidance and assistance.

Inclusive Excellence
For broader belonging-related concerns or to connect with our team.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/president/inclusive-excellence/

International Programs and Global Engagement
For students, faculty, and staff with visa status questions, travel and immigration concerns, and other international matters.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/international-programs-global-engagement/

Jewish Life and Resource Center (JLRC)
For students, faculty, and staff seeking connection, community, cultural programming, or support related to Jewish life on campus.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/student-life/centers-programs/jewish-life-resource-center.html

Office for Equal Opportunity (OEO)
To report incidents of discrimination or harassment.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/president/equal-opportunity/

Southwest Asian, North African Center (SWANA Center)
For students seeking connection, community, cultural programming, or support related to SWANA life on campus.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/retention-academic-success/swana-center.html

Student Organizations and Leadership
To find and connect with student organizations and clubs on campus.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/student-life/student-organizations/

Student Health & Counseling Services
Confidential individual and group counseling services for students.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/student-life/health-counseling/

TimelyCare – Free 24/7 Virtual Care
Sac State offers free, around-the-clock virtual health and well-being support for students through Counseling & Psychotherapy and TimelyCare. Students do not need insurance to use these services. To get started, visit:
https://www.csus.edu/student-life/health-counseling/timely-care.html
Access is available 365 days a year, including after hours, weekends, and school breaks.

Veterans Success Center
Supports student veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard/Reserve members, and military-connected dependents in successfully transitioning to and thriving in college.
Website: https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/veterans/

Sacramento State supports the rights of students, faculty, and staff to express their viewpoints. Freedom of expression must also respect the rights of others, align with our educational mission, and not put others at risk. Please remember to follow the Interim Systemwide Time, Place and Manner policy and Campus Addendum, intended to ensure our campus remains a safe and respectful environment for all, especially during these times. The existing university Time, Place and Manner policy will continue to apply to union-represented employees until the unions have completed bargaining. The Systemwide Time, Place and Manner policy will apply to all employees following the conclusion of bargaining.

We want to remind all community members who may feel targeted or vulnerable in the current climate: acts of harassment, discrimination, or hate have no place on our campus. If you experience or witness any such incidents, please report them immediately to the Office for Equal Opportunity (OEO). We urge everyone to be thoughtful about how their words and actions may impact others and to choose compassion and accountability over assumption and division.

In partnership and care,

Erika Cameron, PhD, Provost and Senior Vice President, Academic Affairs

Michael V. Nguyen, PhD, VP for Inclusive Excellence and Chief Diversity Officer

Aniesha Mitchell, J.D., VP for Student Affairs

Machelle Martin, VP for People and Climate

Marking a Season of Reflection and Renewal

Dear Hornets,

Yesterday marked the beginning of two important observances for many in our campus community—the beginning of Ramadan and Lunar New Year. Today, Ash Wednesday begins the Christian season of Lent. In the weeks ahead, additional observances across traditions will invite members of our campus community into reflection, renewal, prayer, fasting, celebration, and gathering with loved ones.

For many of our students, faculty, and staff, this is a deeply meaningful time of year. These observances shape daily rhythms — from sunrise-to-sunset fasting, to evening prayer, to dietary practices, to time spent in worship and community.

Below are several observances taking place this season.

Spring Cultural and Religious Observances

• Lunar New Year (East Asia and Beyond) - Began February 17 and continues for 16 days. Celebrated by millions worldwide, Lunar New Year is a time of cultural traditions, family gatherings, hope, and good fortune.
• Ramadan (Islamic) – Began February 17/18 (dependent on moon sighting) and continues for approximately 30 days, concluding with Eid al-Fitr. Observant Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset and may attend extended evening prayers.
• Ash Wednesday (Christian) – February 18. A day of reflection and renewal, marking the beginning of Lent.
• Lent (Christian) – February 18 – April 5. A 40-day season often marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of charity.
• Holi (Hindu) – March 3–4. A joyful festival of colors celebrating spring and the triumph of good over evil.
• Eid al-Fitr (Islamic) – March 19–20. Celebrates the end of Ramadan with communal prayer, gratitude, and charity.
• Naw-Rúz/Nowruz (Zoroastrian, Iranian, Bahá’í) – March 20. A New Year celebration, focused on renewal and the arrival of spring.
• Passover (Jewish) – Begins the evening of April 1 and continues for eight days. Includes ritual observances and dietary restrictions.
• Good Friday (Christian) – April 3. A solemn day of reflection and worship.
• Easter (Christian) – April 5: Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ with church services and family gatherings.
• Vaisakhi (Sikh/Hindu) – April 14. A harvest festival and celebration of the founding of the Khalsa in Sikh tradition.
• Ridván (Bahá’í) – April 21 and April 29. Holy days within a twelve-day festival commemorating Bahá’u’lláh’s declaration of his mission.
• Vesak (Buddhist) – May 12. Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.

For a full listing of observances throughout the academic year, please visit the Major Religious Observances Academic Planning Guide and the Multifaith and Cultural Calendar on the Inclusive Excellence website.

Our Shared Responsibility

Small acts of awareness can make a meaningful difference. Looking ahead at course schedules, offering reasonable flexibility when observances conflict with academic requirements, and creating space for students to share their needs all contribute to a campus where students feel respected and supported. As a campus, we have a shared responsibility to offer reasonable accommodations regarding religious observances. Please review our Religious Observance Policy for more information.

Students and employees observing fasting, extended prayer, or travel for holy days may experience temporary shifts in energy or availability. We encourage faculty and supervisors to approach this season with understanding and flexibility where possible.

If you have questions or would like support, Inclusive Excellence is here for you at diversity@csus.edu.

May this season of reflection and renewal bring peace to all who observe and deepen our care for one another as a campus community.

In Community,

Your Inclusive Excellence Team

Black History Month at Sac State

Celebrating Black History Month

The month of February is proudly recognized as Black History Month and is a time to celebrate and reflect on the history, achievements, and enduring influence of Black people and culture across the globe. This yearly commemoration implores us to explore the impact of Black history on our society and reflect on the ways that celebrating this heritage month can play a vital role in honoring the past while also shaping a more inclusive and informed future for our Hornet community.

Carter G. Woodson established this recognition of Black history to serve not only as a celebration, but a call to action. It is a reminder to uplift stories that have too often gone untold, acknowledge the resilience and brilliance of Black communities, and to recommit ourselves to creating spaces where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive.

As a designated Black Serving Institution (BSI), Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), and an Asian American, Native American & Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI), this month connects deeply to Sac State’s and the CSU’s commitment to serve while engaging all areas of campus and the greater Sacramento community to celebrate diverse identities. Together, we strive to provide resources, create safe educational spaces, and offer equitable opportunities for all. As we observe this month, let us honor the past, engage meaningfully in the present, and continue building a future rooted in understanding, respect, and shared success.

Resources

Sac State and the broader CSU system are proud to provide a range of resources and programs designed to promote Black student, staff, and faculty success. These include: 

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center (MLK Center): The MLK Center is a central hub for the exploration of African American heritage and culture. The overall center is designed to foster an ethos of success that permeates the scholarly experience, the community and the world by setting a tone of change and lifelong improvement that inspires and fulfills the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. students. 

The Black Honors College: The Black Honors College offers an enhanced co-curricular experience for students, featuring specialized coursework, internships, mentorships, distinctive research opportunities, creative arts programs, residential living and learning initiatives, scholarships, and esteemed recognition. Open to all students interested in Black history, culture, and contributions, the Black Honors College admits incoming first-year students every fall. Transfer students and continuing Sacramento State sophomores and juniors can apply for admission every spring. Since the program's inception in August 2024, the Black Honors College has admitted approximately 420 students and continues to grow, showing a remarkable commitment to serving students and creating equitable opportunities.

The Central Office for the Advancement of Black Student Success (COABSS): The CSU central office focused on improving enrollment, retention, and graduation rates for Black students across the CSU system.

The Cooper-Woodson College Enhancement Program (CWC):  CWC is an association of faculty, staff, students, and community members committed to recognizing and upholding the tradition represented in Pan African cultures where the adults in the community assume responsibility for shaping and guiding a supportive, nurturing, and culturally responsive learning environment for CWC students.

The Black Student Union (BSU): The group serves as a resource to unite and uplift the Black community on campus through various events, community engagement, and opportunities for the success of the individuals involved and student body as a whole. They strive to get members involved with and aware of social issues and achievements of the Black community.

The Black Staff and Faculty Association (BSFA): BSFA's mission is to create a thriving community of belonging for Black faculty, staff, and students. Through advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration, the BSFA empowers individuals to achieve excellence and contribute to a more equitable and inclusive campus environment.

We encourage you to engage with these offices, programs, and events which are vital to Sac State’s mission of inclusion and excellence, during this month and beyond.

In Community,

Your Inclusive Excellence and Student Affairs Teams

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Dear Hornet Community,

Each year, Martin Luther King Jr. Day invites us to pause and reflect on the life, leadership, and enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observed on the third Monday of January, this national holiday honors Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to justice, equity, dignity, and nonviolence, as well as the broader Civil Rights Movement’s pursuit of freedom and equality for all.

Dr. King reminded us that meaningful change requires courage, compassion, and collective responsibility. His work challenged institutions and individuals alike to confront injustice, expand opportunity, and build communities rooted in belonging and mutual respect. While this day honors his legacy, it also serves as a call to action, encouraging each of us to reflect on how we contribute to creating a more just and inclusive society in our daily lives.

At Sacramento State, we recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day as an opportunity to reaffirm our shared values and our commitment to fostering a campus where all students, staff, and faculty feel seen, supported, and empowered. We reflect on our guiding vision of Institutional Servingness, which asks us to move beyond access alone and toward intentional, equity-minded practices that center care, belonging, and student success. Institutional Servingness reminds us that transformation happens through our everyday actions: how we design programs, deliver services, build relationships, and show up for one another. In honoring Dr. King, we are invited to reflect on how our work contributes to a university culture where all students, staff, and faculty are affirmed, supported, and empowered to thrive.

We encourage the campus community to engage in learning, dialogue, service, and reflection as we honor Dr. King’s vision and consider how it continues to shape our work and responsibilities today.

About the Martin Luther King Jr. Center

The Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Center: The MLK Center is a central hub for the exploration of African and African diaspora heritage and culture. The overall Center is designed to foster an ethos of success that permeates the scholarly experience, the community, and the world by setting a tone of change and lifelong improvement that inspires and fulfills the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Students.

The MLK Center invites you to join us for a series of upcoming events and activities designed to build community, promote wellness, and celebrate Black history and culture.

• The Teaching Kitchen: Monday, February 16 at 1:00 PM - The Cove Kitchen at The WELL
• Black Healthy Relationships: Tuesday, February 17 at 12:00 PM - MLK Center, Lassen Hall 2201
• Black Wall Street: Thursday, February 26 at 3:00 PM - MLK Center, Lassen Hall 2201

We encourage you to stop by, participate, and engage with these enriching opportunities. If you have any questions, please contact us at mlk@csus.edu.

We are grateful to be part of a community committed to learning, service, and the collective well-being of all.

In Community,

Your Inclusive Excellence and Student Affairs Teams

Honoring Muslim American Heritage Month

As we begin a new year, we take this moment to recognize Sacramento State’s observance of Muslim American Heritage Month. In January, we celebrate the diverse communities, rich cultures, and meaningful contributions of American Muslims throughout our society--contributions that enrich who we are and strengthen our shared goals. This month also provides space to reflect on the challenges faced by our Muslim community and to encourage deeper understanding and awareness rooted in unity and inclusion.

Here at Sacramento State, we are proud to offer resources that help support our Hornet Muslim community.

• Ummah Belonging Map: In November, Inclusive Excellence launched the Ummah Belonging Map, an interactive digital map, connecting the Muslim campus community to resources on and off campus. The map has two sections: the Sac State Belonging Map, which identifies on-campus resources for our Hornet community, and the Sacramento Community Belonging Map, which displays resources across the Sacramento region. The Sac State Belonging map includes resources like Halal food options, student clubs, prayer/meditation rooms, wudu stations, and cultural resource centers. The Sacramento Community Belonging Map includes resources such as mosques, Muslim-owned businesses, local restaurants, and more. You can access and learn more about the Ummah Belonging Map on Inclusive Excellence’s Belonging Maps landing page.
• Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) Center: The SWANA Center is a welcoming space dedicated to building belonging, inclusion, and community for students with ties to the SWANA region, encompassing students identifying as Middle Eastern, North African, Arab, Amazigh, Armenian, Kurdish, Persian, and many other identities. The Center is also open to anyone who wishes to learn, connect, and support. Rooted in their mission to provide a safe and supportive environment, the Center promotes student success, cultural pride, and a sense of home on campus.
• Iranian Faculty and Staff Association (IFSA): The IFSA, a Sac State Employee Resource Group (ERG), fosters an inclusive community within Sacramento State, uniting Iranian faculty and staff members in a supportive environment. They are dedicated to empowering their members in higher education, cultivating leadership skills, and facilitating networking, mentoring, and social opportunities. Additionally, the IFSA strives to promote cross-cultural understanding by introducing Iranian culture and Persian heritage to the community. As an ERG, the IFSA is open to all employees regardless of background or identity. To learn more about the IFSA, visit their website.
• Iranian and Middle Eastern Studies Center (IMESC): The mission of the IMESC is to foster a better understanding of the peoples, culture, and politics of Iran and the Middle East in the Greater Sacramento region and Northern California. The Center pursues this mission by promoting and supporting social and cultural events, forums, workshops, research, and courses, as well as a collaborative relationship with similar centers in the US and abroad. To learn more about the IMESC, visit their website.
• Presidential Islamophobia Advisory Council: Since 2024, Inclusive Excellence has co-led Sacramento State’s Presidential Islamophobia Advisory Council, which works to advise University administration on issues that impact our Muslim campus community and navigate and prevent Islamophobia. To learn more about Islamophobia, please visit our website on Addressing Islamophobia. To contact the Islamophobia Advisory Council, please email Inclusive Excellence at diversity@csus.edu.

This month is a time to learn from the empowering stories of Muslim communities across the nation. We encourage our campus community to engage with the many histories and enduring legacies of a diverse community that has been part of our country since its very founding. We urge our Hornets to put the values of inclusion and unity into action as we work together to create a campus environment where all students, faculty, and staff feel they belong.

In Community,

Your Inclusive Excellence and Student Affairs Teams

Honoring our Veterans and Military Families

Dear Hornet Family,

This Veterans Day, we join together in expressing our heartfelt gratitude to the veterans and military members of our Sacramento State community. Your courage, dedication, and service have made a lasting impact on our nation and right here on our campus.

While Memorial Day honors those who gave their lives in service and Armed Forces Day celebrates those currently serving, Veterans Day is a special moment to recognize all who have served and are currently serving. We also take this time to acknowledge the families who stand behind them, whose love and sacrifice sustain our service members.

At Sacramento State, our veterans, active-duty members, and their families are an integral part of the Hornet community. Their experiences strengthen our campus and remind us of the values of leadership, resilience, and commitment that define true service. We invite everyone to take a moment today to thank a veteran or reflect on the meaning of this day.

The Veterans Success Center continues to serve as a hub of support and connection for our military-affiliated students. From academic support and career guidance to peer mentorship and transition assistance, the Center helps ensure that every veteran has the opportunity to thrive at Sac State and beyond.

To all who have served and to the families who have shared in that service, we thank you deeply for your unwavering dedication and strength.

In Community,

Your Inclusive Excellence Team

Honoring Native American Heritage Month at Sac State

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich histories, traditions, diverse cultures, and enduring contributions of Native American peoples across the United States. It is also a moment for reflection, learning, and recommitment to supporting Native American tribal sovereignty, knowledge, and well-being.

At Sacramento State, we acknowledge that our campus sits on the homelands of the Native American people who are indigenous to this area, the Nissim-Pawenan, Nisenan, and Miwok. Additionally, the larger Sacramento area and its rivers serve as a gathering place for many local tribes from the surrounding valley and foothills including the Southern Maidu, Patwin and Wintun. We recognize the deep connections Indigenous communities maintain with this region and the importance of shared history and community. Sacramento State also respectfully acknowledges Wilton Rancheria, the only federally recognized tribal nation in Sacramento County. In our unique capacity as a Capitol city CSU campus, we also recognize the more than 100 Native nations that have inhabited these lands since time immemorial.

Our commitment to Native American student success and the well-being of our faculty and staff continues to grow through programs and partnerships such as:

• Wileety Native American College (WNAC): A newly launched cocurricular program, the WNAC provides a Native based cohort educational experience for students. The experience is designed to equip students with the necessary academic, professional, tribal government centered, community focused, culturally based knowledge and skills to become successful leaders within our communities. The WNAC offers support services for the students to help provide a successful University experience.
• Esak’timá Center: The  Esak’timá Center provides supportive services for students to assist them in their academic journey with Academic Advising, Academic Workshops, Peer Advising, Scholarship referrals, Cultural Presentations and Workshops, Student Leadership opportunities and Campus and Community Resources. The Center is an open and inclusive gathering space for all students. 
• Native American Studies Program in the Ethnic Studies Department: The Native American Studies program promotes critical thinking, writing, and communication skills that are rooted in Native American knowledge systems and community involvement.
• Office of Tribal Affairs: The office is charged with fostering and maintaining healthy relationships with Native Communities and with creating a university environment that promotes the well-being and success of Native American students.

Community Organizations and Resources

Beyond campus, there are many local and regional organizations dedicated to uplifting Native and Indigenous communities.

• California State University Office of Tribal Relations
• California Native Vote Project
• The Sovereign Bodies Institute
• California Native American Heritage Commission
• Native Dads Network
• Native Sisters Circle
• Indigenous Justice
• Sogorea Te’ Land Trust
• News from Native California
• Advocates for Indigenous California
• California Indian Basketweavers’ Association
• Save California Salmon

Musicians perform at the Wileety Native American College Grand Opening event on September 24th, 2025.

Sac State remains committed to creating learning experiences that uplift Native voices, stories, cultures, and traditions and to fostering an environment of belonging for all of our Hornet community.

In Community,

Your Inclusive Excellence and Student Affairs Teams

Honoring Dia de los Muertos: A Celebration of Life and Memory

Día de los Muertos is an Indigenous tradition from Southern Mexico and Central America, celebrated from October 28th to November 2nd. This holiday honors the lives of loved ones who have passed, including family, friends, and even pets, as they return from their annual rest to reunite with those they left behind.

Families prepare for this time by creating ofrendas (altars) filled with meaningful mementos like candles, photos, keepsakes, and personal items like eyeglasses or jewelry to guide our antepasados (ancestors) back home. These altars also include essentials and treats like water, favorite foods, cempasúchil, (flowers), coffee, sugar skulls, sweet bread, and other items that were loved or enjoyed by those who have passed. Traditionally, ofrendas are built on two or three levels, symbolizing earth, sky, and the underworld, as a place to honor and welcome our ancestors.

Traditionally, Día de los Muertos invites families to decorate the resting places of their loved ones, but as this holiday has gained popularity in the U.S., more families are building ofrendas at home to honor their relatives.

At Sacramento State

At Sacramento State, we celebrate Día de los Muertos to foster community among our students. Our approach centers on cultural knowledge, blending non-traditional learning with the familial wisdom that students bring from home. Through exploring Indigenous history and traditions, we create a space where students can honor loved ones, express their identities, and connect with one another in a supportive environment. This celebration has become an opportunity for students to creatively acknowledge their heritage, develop their identities, and commemorate those they've lost.

For many years, students, faculty, and staff at Sacramento State have honored and celebrated Día de los Muertos through various meaningful expressions—in classrooms, through altares, art installations, exhibits, performances, and community gatherings. These celebrations have grown organically across campus, bringing together different departments, disciplines, and community members in a shared commitment to honor tradition, foster cultural understanding, and build connections. Today, Día de los Muertos remains a vibrant part of campus life, creating spaces for reflection, creativity, and community that bridge academic learning with cultural celebration.

Join Sac State's Barrio Arts & Ethnic Studies at the Dia de los Muertos Celebration

The Día de los Muertos celebration led by the Barrio Art program at Sacramento State expanded in 2022 through
collaboration between the Art and Ethnic Studies departments, with faculty like Professors Tena-Encarnacion, Dr. Huante-Tzintzun, Dr. Garcia, and Dr. Flores significantly growing student participation. Today, the altar project continues as a powerful way to build community among students, faculty, and local schools while honoring tradition and education.

The campus community is invited to gather for this year’s Día de los Muertos Altar Exhibit on November 5, 2025, in the University Library Quad.

Agenda of Events:

• 12:00pm: Procession - Meet in Parking Lot B
• 1:00pm: Marigold Ceremony - Library Quad
• 2:00pm: Catrina Fashion Show - Library Quad
• 3:00pm - 9:00pm: Student Ofrenda Storytelling - Library Quad
• 5:00pm: Grupo Folclorico Nostalgia de Mexico - Library Quad
• 6:00pm: Community Catrina Fashion Show - Library Quad
• 7:00pm - 9:00pm: Live Music - Library Quad

El Centro Serna - Dia de los Muertos Community Altar

October 27 – November 3 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | University Union Ballroom

Visit the Día de los Muertos Community Altar. El Centro Serna invites you to experience our community altar, a space to honor loved ones and ancestors. The altar will be on display Oct. 27–Nov. 3 in the University Union Lobby from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Come pause, reflect and celebrate life through the colors, stories and offerings that connect us across generations.

Dreamer Resource Center Community Altar

October 27 – November 7 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 3rd Floor Lassen Hall

The DRC has created a community altar to honor and remember our loved ones. All are welcome to visit this
special space. If you would like to participate by adding a photo of someone you wish to honor, please email it to
drc@csus.edu and we will print and place it on the altar for you.

Sacramento Poderosas Mural

October 1 – November 6 | 3rd Floor University Library

Created by artists Ruby Chacón and Isabel Martinez, this powerful piece honors Chicana/Latina women as leaders, storytellers, and change makers. Through bold colors and compelling imagery, the mural invites reflection on equity, community, and cultural history. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with art as activism. Stop by, take a moment, and be inspire.

Exhibits: Chicanx/Latinx Scholarly Excellence at Sac State

The Chicanx/Latinx Faculty and Staff Association (CHLFSA) is currently spotlighting Chicanx/Latinx Scholarly Excellence at Sac State in the three display cases on the second floor of the Sac State Library.

• Zines of Resistance and Representation: Latino/a/x Politics Through Student Voices by Dr. Kristina Flores
  Victor (Political Science)
• La Educación es Resistencia: Dissertations by Chicanx/Latinx Scholars in the Doctorate in Educational
  leadership Program by Dr. Araceli Feliz (EdD Program in the College of Education)
• Comunidad y Cambio Social: Public Sociology by Chicanx/Latinx Scholars by Dr. Heidy Sarabia
  (Sociology)

Come experience the heart of Día de los Muertos at Sacramento State, connect with the community, and enjoy an enriching time of remembrance and celebration.

In Community,
The HSI Director and Inclusive Excellence

Viva Nuestra Comunidad: Celebrating Latine Heritage Month

As we celebrate Latine Heritage Month (LHM) from September 15th to October 15th, Sacramento State honors the remarkable contributions, rich histories, and vibrant cultures of the Latine community. This national celebration, established in 1968, is a time to recognize the invaluable impact of the Latine community on our campus, region, and nation. We are proud to celebrate the diverse heritage and resilience of our Latine students, staff, and faculty.

What is Latine Heritage Month (LHM)?

LHM provides an additional opportunity to explore the incredible impact that the Latine community has had on the United State for generations. Today, the Latine population in the United State is over 60 million according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The Latine community continues to help fuel the economy and enrich the nation as entrepreneurs, athletes, artist, entertainers, educators, scientists, public servants, and much more.

LHM provides an opportunity to celebrate the integral part the Latine community has had in growing and strengthening the country. Latine people continue to shape the nation as business owners, activist, artist, educators, public servants, and much more. From serving in the U.S. military to being champions in the fight for civil rights, Latine people remain string leaders and change makers.

Learn More About LHM on our HSI Website

Let's Celebrate! Events and Activities

Sac State LHM Events:

Throughout September and October, Sac State will celebrate Latine Heritage Month with a variety of campus events. Here are just a few highlights:

• Centro Serna Open House: September 16th 3:00-5:00pm, Serna Center
• La Bienvenida: The Welcome: September 18th 3:00-6:00pm, Acorn Amphitheater (Main Quad)
• Latine Heritage Football Night: September 27th 6:00pm, Hornet Stadium
• Voces de Sacramento Award Ceremony: October 9th 6:00-9:00pm, University Union Redwood Room
• Feria de Educacion: October 11th 9:00am-4:00pm, Virtual

Community LHM Events:

Learn more about activities and events happening in the Sacramento community throughout September and October by visiting the link below.

Learn More About Community Events

Latine Heritage Month is a time of recognition and reflection. As a proud Hispanic-Serving Institution, Sac State encourages everyone to attend a campus or community event and contribute to this month's spirit of cultural engagement, pride, and celebration.

In community,

Your Inclusive Excellence Team

Acknowledging Global Events and Standing Together in Community

Dear Hornet Community,

We are writing during what we know is an incredibly difficult and unsettling time. The recent bombing in Iran and the broader instability in the region are causing distress and concern for many across our campus community. We acknowledge that this situation may bring feelings of fear, panic, uncertainty, helplessness, and pain. These are valid, human responses, and you are not alone in feeling them.

Whether you are personally impacted, concerned for loved ones, or simply struggling to make sense of the violence unfolding across the world, we want you to know that there is space for you at Sacramento State. We encourage students and employees alike to connect with one another, seek out support through student organizations or employee resource groups, and find comfort in your community. If you are in need of emotional or mental health support, please consider reaching out to our counseling services, which are mentioned in the resources listed below. You do not have to process this alone.

At Sacramento State, we are committed to fostering an environment where all people—regardless of identity, faith, nationality, or political belief—are treated with dignity. During moments like these, it is critical that we reaffirm our values of inclusion, empathy, and respect. We especially want to acknowledge that international conflict often leads to harmful local consequences, including rising incidents of Antisemitism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, and national origin-based discrimination. We denounce all such acts unequivocally. There is no justification for targeted hate, intimidation, or exclusion in our community.

We know that these global issues are layered and complex—and while they may feel distant geographically, they are deeply personal to many of our students, staff, and faculty. Our responsibility is to hold space for the nuance and complexity of these global issues while recognizing the humanity of all people and upholding safety and belonging for every member of our campus. We urge everyone to consider how their words and actions may impact others and to choose curiosity, compassion, and accountability over assumption and division.

Campus Resources for Support

• Student Organizations and Leadership
  • To find and connect with student organizations and clubs on campus.
  • Website: Student Organizations & Leadership | Sacramento State
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
  • To find and connect with employee resource groups on campus.
  • Website: Sac State Employee Resource Groups | Sacramento State
• Student Health & Counseling Services
  • Confidential individual and group counseling services for students.
  • Website: Student Health, Counseling, & Wellness Services | Sacramento State
  • TimelyCare – Free 24/7 Virtual Care: Sac State now offers FREE, around-the-clock virtual health and well-being support for students through TimelyCare. You do not need insurance to use these services. To get started with the following services, visit https://www.csus.edu/student-life/health-counseling/timely-care.html. Access is available 365 days a year — including after hours, weekends, and school breaks.
    • MedicalNow: On-demand support for common health concerns (e.g., cold, flu, allergies)
    • TalkNow: Immediate emotional support for anxiety, depression, relationships, school-related stress, and more
    • Self-Care Content: 24/7 access to meditation, yoga, wellness videos, and expert articles
    • Peer Community: A safe, anonymous space to connect with others going through similar experiences
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Counseling and support services for faculty and staff.
  • Website: Employee Assistance Program | Sacramento State
• Office for Equal Opportunity (OEO)
  • To report incidents of discrimination or harassment.
  • Website: Office for Equal Opportunity | Sacramento State
• Inclusive Excellence
  • For broader belonging-related concerns or to connect with our team.
  • Website: Inclusive Excellence | Sacramento State

We encourage you to follow these community guidelines during difficult times:

• Practice awareness: Understand that others around you may be hurting or grieving—even if they aren’t vocal about it.
• Avoid assumptions: Be cautious about generalizations regarding individuals or communities based on nationality, religion, or appearance.
• Stay informed—but grounded: Seek credible sources of information and avoid content that promotes fear or division.
• Foster safe dialogue: If you’re engaging in discussion, prioritize listening and mutual respect. It’s okay not to have all the answers.
• Report harm: If you witness or experience hate speech or exclusion, report it to the Office for Equal Opportunity or Inclusive Excellence.

In times of global crisis, our local actions matter. Let us be a community that shows up with compassion, refuses hate and honors the full humanity of one another. We remain committed to creating space for healing, reflection, and connection. Our campus must be a place where every person feels seen, supported, and safe—especially in moments like these.

In partnership and care,

Your Inclusive Excellence Team

Dreamer Resource Center Services

Sacramento State reaffirms our unwavering commitment to supporting and protecting our immigrant community members. We stand firmly in solidarity with our undocumented and mixed-status family students, staff, faculty, alumni, and their families during this challenging time.

Our campus remains a place where every member of our community can pursue their educational and professional goals regardless of their status. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive resources and support to ensure the safety and well-being of all community members.

FREE Immigration Legal Consultations

The Dreamer Resource Center (DRC) offers free immigration legal consultations and immigration services in partnership with the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). This service is available to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and immediate family members.

Make an appointment here to access these confidential legal services.

Additional Resource Available:

• Know Your Rights
• Family Preparedness Plan
• CSU Resources
• Immigration-related Information and Resources
• Red Cards: Know Your Rights (downloadable)

If you or someone you know needs assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to provide confidential support, connect you with legal resources, and ensure you have access to the services you need. Please contact:

Dreamer Resource Center
Kimberly Gomez, Director
k.gomez@csus.edu

To our immigrant community members: you are valued, you belong here, and you are an essential part of the Sacramento State family. Your contributions enrich our campus, and we are committed to creating an environment where you can thrive academically and personally.

We encourage all community members to stay informed about available resources and to support one another during this time. Together, we will continue to build a campus community rooted in inclusion, respect, and mutual support.

For additional information about workshops, resources, or to request specialized training for your department or group, please contact the Dreamer Resource Center, drc@csus.edu.

In solidarity and support,

Kimberly Gomez

Director, Dreamer Resource Center

Lilia Contreras Ramirez

Hispanic Serving Institution Director, Inclusive Excellence

and the Inclusive Excellence Team

Sacramento State Celebrates Pride Month 2025

Dear Hornet Family,

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of LGBTQIA+ communities, commemorate the Stonewall uprising of 1969, and to reaffirm our shared commitment to justice, equity, and belonging for all.

This Pride Month, we gather in a time of heightened national hostility toward LGBTQIA+ communities, marked by a surge in discriminatory laws and targeted attacks—especially against trans and nonbinary individuals. These threats are not distant; they reverberate in the daily lives of LGBTQIA+ people across the country and within our own Sacramento State community. We recognize the deep impact such hostility has on well-being, safety, and the fundamental right to belong. At Sacramento State, we do not stand on the sidelines. We denounce these injustices and stand strongly and unapologetically with our LGBTQIA+ students, staff, and faculty. Pride is an act of resistance and a declaration of belonging. We affirm, without hesitation, that LGBTQIA+ lives are valued, protected, and essential to the fabric of our university. There is no place for hate here—only equity, inclusion, and the unwavering pursuit of justice.

Pride is a celebration, but it is also a reminder that the legacy of Pride Month began with an uprising. This reminds us to continuously pursue our efforts toward full equality and belonging. Together, we must continue to create spaces of affirmation, visibility, and care—on campus and beyond.

Join Us: Sacramento Pride March and Parade

We’re excited to share that Sacramento State will be walking in this year’s Sacramento Pride March and Parade on Sunday, June 15th. All students, faculty, staff, and campus partners are invited to join us in showing up proudly as One Hornet Family.

Sign up to walk with us here: Sign up for Pride March and Parade

Resources and Support

• The PRIDE Center
• Inclusive Excellence
• Queer and Trans Faculty and Staff AssociationDepartment of Women's and Gender Studies
• Student Organizations and Leadership
• Community Organizations
  • Sacramento LGBT Community Center
  • Rainbow Chamber of Commerce
  • Gender Health Center
  • Sacramento PFLAG
  • Sacramento Lavender Library

Thank you for being part of a campus that believes in the dignity and rights of all, not only during Pride Month, but every day.

Celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month at Sacramento State

Dear Hornet Family, 

Each May, the United States celebrates Jewish American Heritage Month—a time to recognize more than 350 years of Jewish history, culture, and contributions that have shaped our nation. First established by presidential proclamation in 2006 and expanded in 2020, Jewish American Heritage Month invites us to learn from the diverse stories of Jewish Americans and to celebrate their enduring legacy of creativity, resilience, and social action. At Sacramento State we embrace this spirit year round and are committed to ensuring that our Jewish campus community feels supported and empowered to thrive. 

Events This Month 

Throughout May, community groups will host programs in the Sacramento region that highlight Jewish culture, history, and contemporary life. 

• The Jewish Federation of Sacramento has many events planned for May. Check out their events calendar to learn more. 

• Hillel of Davis and Sacramento has exciting programming this May. Learn more by viewing their events calendar. 

Explore Campus Resources

• Jewish Life and Resource Center: Whether you are seeking community, cultural programming, or a quiet place to study, the JLRC welcomes you.  

• Inclusive Excellence (IE): We are here to help connect you with programs, services, and pathways to belonging—reach us any time at diversity@csus.edu. 

• Presidential Antisemitism Advisory Council: Overseen by IE, the advisory council works to advise the administration on identifying, addressing, and preventing antisemitism on campus and promoting a safe, inclusive environment for all. Contact IE at diversity@csus.edu to learn more.

• Jewish Faculty and Staff Association (JFAST): Faculty and staff seeking community, networking, or advocacy can also turn to JFAST, which offers peer support, professional development, and campuswide collaboration opportunities. 

• Jewish Student Union (JSU): The Jewish Student Union is a student organization on campus that provides space and resources to the culture and activities of Jewish life on campus. Search for them on CampusGroups to learn more. 

Jewish American Heritage Month reminds us that when we honor the stories and identities of every community, we strengthen the fabric of our entire Hornet Family. We invite you to learn, participate, and celebrate with us. 

Celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility

Dear Hornet Community, 

In a time when anti-trans rhetoric and legislation are on the rise across the country, it is more important than ever to stand in solidarity with our transgender and nonbinary community members. Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31) is a time to celebrate the resilience, achievements, and contributions of trans and nonbinary individuals like Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, and Lou Sullivan, while also recognizing the ongoing fight for equity and inclusion. 

At Sacramento State, we are committed to fostering a campus where all identities are seen, valued, and supported. We encourage everyone to take this day to learn, reflect, and advocate for transgender inclusion and belonging. 

To support our transgender and nonbinary community, we invite you to explore campus resources, including: 

The PRIDE Center – A space for LGBTQIA+ students to find community and support. 

We invite you to sign up for the The PRIDE Center’s Rainbow Ally Trainings coming up on April 10th and May 2nd. Learn more and sign up. 

We encourage you to join The PRIDE Center for Queer Prom on April 18th. 

Student Health, Counseling & Wellness Services – Provides gender-affirming care and mental health resources. 

Inclusive Excellence – Advancing equity, belonging, and cultural transformation at Sac State. 

We hope you’ll join us for an upcoming LGBTQIA+ and Allies Community Dialogue on April 16th from 12pm-2pm. Register and learn more.

In collaboration with The PRIDE Center, Inclusive Excellence is pleased to provide a new webpage dedicated to Trans and Non-Binary Resources. 

Student Organizations - Search for community by looking up student organizations using CampusGroups. 

Visibility matters, as does fostering understanding and support. Together, let’s affirm the dignity and belonging of every Hornet, today and always.

Ensuring Accessibility & Inclusion for All Campus Events

Dear Hornet Community,

Historically, individuals with disabilities have faced heightened systemic discrimination, particularly when their identities intersect with other marginalized identities, including gender, sexuality, and citizenship status. At Sacramento State, we recognize disability as a fundamental aspect of diversity and remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering an accessible, inclusive, and accommodating campus community. Regardless of executive orders or court rulings, we will continue to prioritize and champion accessibility and inclusion for all members of our community. Ableism, like all other forms of discrimination, has no place on this campus.

While many individuals, programs, and departments on campus implement inclusive practices for campus meetings and events, we have more work to do. Furthermore, there are inconsistencies across campus in providing accessibility to events and even opportunities to request accommodations for events. These gaps can result in the unintentional exclusion of community members. Examples include:

• A lack of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters or Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) services

• The absence of a clear process to request interpreters and/or real-time captioning or CART services

• The absence of ramps leading to stages

• Missing captions for videos and visual descriptions for videos and/or presentation slides

• Printed materials that are not screen reader-friendly

• Environmental factors such as sudden loud noises, flashing lights, and other sensory triggers

Most recently, two campus events experienced issues with the lack of ASL interpreter services. As a result, during the March 6, 2025, Faculty Senate meeting, a resolution was passed to create policies ensuring that ASL and captioning services are provided at all future Faculty Senate events. Within the resolution, attention was also drawn to affirming that individuals with disabilities are the primary experts in determining their own access and accommodation needs and therefore, individuals with disabilities must be included in any discussions regarding policy or practice changes or decisions that may affect their access to campus events.

These recent events, and others before them, have drawn attention to the painful consequences of exclusion. Therefore, on behalf of the entire campus community, we want to sincerely apologize to those who have ever been excluded from fully participating in an event because the necessary accommodations were not provided and access to requesting accommodations was also not provided. As proud members of this campus, and as an office deeply committed to the values of accessibility, inclusion, belonging, and justice, we personally commit to doing better and leading by example.

Every member of our campus community deserves equal access to the rich variety of educational, cultural, and social activities that make our university experience so dynamic. To fully uphold our core values of diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and justice, we must ensure that all campus events are accessible and inclusive.

To institutionalize this commitment, our office is developing a Campus Event Inclusiveness and Accessibility Policy, which will apply to all campus events. The policy is being developed in collaboration with diverse stakeholders who have lived experiences of disabilities and will be finalized by the end of Spring 2025, with full implementation beginning Fall 2025. This policy is designed to create meaningful change and ensure we live up to our values. It will:

• Establish clear accessibility standards for all events;

• Provide a framework for requesting and implementing accommodations; and

• Create accountability measures to ensure consistent application

We thank you for your partnership in this important work. Sacramento State remains unwavering in our dedication to fostering an inclusive, accessible, and equitable environment for all, and we will continue to advocate for policies and practices that uphold these principles.

And, as we work together to build an accessible and inclusive campus, we encourage all members of our community to take advantage of the following resources.

Resources for Accessibility and Inclusion

CSU System Chancellor’s Office Resources

• CSU Learn – Serving Students with Disabilities: Introduction

Sacramento State Resources

• Campus Tools and Guides

• Planning Inclusive and Accessible Events

• Campus Event Planner Workgroup (SSEP):

• Meets monthly to provide webinars, training, and open forums for campus event planners and interested individuals.

• Visit the University Events webpage for more information.

• Campus Contacts for Accessibility and Inclusion:

• CARES (Campus Advocacy, Resources & Education), cares@csus.edu

• Office for Equal Opportunity (OEO), equalopportunity@csus.edu

• Disability Justice, odj@csus.edu

• Disability Access Center, dac@csus.edu

• Human Resources Benefits, benefits@csus.edu

Advocacy and Legal Support

• California State Attorney General, Rob Bonta – Share your support for Section 504:

• Online Contact Form: oag.ca.gov/contact/general-contact-form

• Phone: (916) 322-3360

• Toll-Free: (800) 952-5225

• TTY/TDD (English): (800) 735-2929

• Mailing Address:
  California Department of Justice
  Attn: Public Inquiry Unit
  P.O. Box 944255
  Sacramento, CA 94244-2550

• Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) – Learn more about the Texas v. Becerra case: Visit DREDF.org

• Disability Rights California – Legal Support for Disability-Related Issues

• Website: www.disabilityrightsca.org

• Phone: (800) 776-5746

• TTY: (800) 719-5798

• Online Assistance Form: Get Help

National Resources: Event Accessibility Planning & Toolkits

• Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD) – Digital Accessibility Resources

• Presentations & Documents

• American Bar Association (ABA) Resources:

• Planning Accessible Meetings and Events

• Accessible Meeting Events for Neurodiversity

• Virtual Meetings Accessibility Checklist

• Choosing an Accessible Virtual Platform

• Zoom Accessibility Guide for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing

As we move forward in fostering a truly inclusive and accessible campus, we encourage each of you to reflect on the role we all play in creating a community where everyone belongs. Accessibility is not just about compliance—it is about dignity, respect, and ensuring that every member of our Hornet community has the opportunity to fully participate in campus life. By working together, holding ourselves accountable, and centering the voices of individuals with disabilities, we can build a more just and equitable Sacramento State. Thank you for your continued partnership in this important work.