Milwaukee Public Museum Welcomes Afro-Latin and Caribbean Dance Group, Local Latino Artisans for Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations

MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Public Museum (MPM) is exploring the multiethnic histories and traditions of Latin American cultures September 15-October 15 with two community-driven Saturday celebrations, as well as educational opportunities on weekdays, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. During the month, visitors will be able to enjoy cultural dance performances, take part in activities led by local artisans and learn about the Museum’s vast collection of objects from various countries across the Americas. All programming is included with general admission.

“This Hispanic Heritage Month, we are celebrating the extraordinary diversity within Latin American identities—from Indigenous ancestry to African traditions and European influences, these cultures have blended to create something vibrant and unique,” said Adriana Vázquez, MPM Director of Education & Public Programs. “We are excited to highlight this blend of lineages with events and programs at the Museum all month long focusing on the multiethnic roots of Latin American dance, music, artistry, food, language and more.”

Hispanic Heritage Month at MPM kicks off on Saturday, September 20, with Celebración Latina: Cultivating Raíces (Roots). This special event features performances by Cultura Viva showcasing the quick rhythms and vibrant outfits of Afro-Latin and Caribbean dance. Performances will be at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. in the Steigleder Special Exhibits Gallery on the Second Floor.

The Museum then closes out Hispanic Heritage Month on Saturday, October 11, with a second special event, Celebración Latina: Hands-on Heritage. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors will be able to attend engagements led by Latino artists and makers sharing their craft and cultural knowledge. Crafts will include repujado (metal embossing), macramé, embroidery and more. These activities will be located throughout the exhibits.

“By partnering with community members for our Hispanic Heritage Month events, we are sharing and celebrating living culture—not just what is preserved in the Museum’s galleries, but what is still practiced every day,” Vázquez said. “This collaboration allows authentic voices to share their expertise passed down through generations with our visitors. Their artforms are a reminder of the creativity and cultural richness that thrives in the local community.”

During both Celebración Latina events, as well as Wednesdays-Fridays, Museum Educators will also be stationed throughout the exhibits to engage visitors in hands-on learning opportunities inspired by MPM’s exhibits and collections items related to Hispanic heritage, including:

• The ancient science and cultural significance of chocolate;
• The history of Latinos in Milwaukee;
• Musical instruments from Latin America;
• The life of Mexican-American archaeologist and anthropologist Zelia Nuttall, who studied ancient
• Mesoamerican civilizations;
• Monarch butterflies’ migration from Mexico to Wisconsin;
• The significance of el maíz (corn), which originated in Latin America.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.