50th Anniversary

In 2021, the Department of Chicano & Latino Studies (CLS) celebrates its 50th anniversary. To commemorate this historic moment, we will produce public programs across the calendar year, so watch our social media channels and website for specific information.

Artwork by Eric J. Garcia, featuring iconic Chicano and Latino cultural imagery and icons in maroon and gold
¡Presente!: 50 Years of Chicano & Latino Studies

Our first event is the exhibition ¡Presente!: 50 Years of Chicano & Latino Studies, February 8 through May 16, 2021. In collaboration with Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES) in St. Paul and the UMN Heritage Studies & Public History program, the exhibition will document through art and archival materials the department’s five decades of scholarship and community engagement.

On the left, an art exhibition poster from the 1970's featuring the original hummingbird artwork by Ray Roybal. On the right, a modernized version of the hummingbird that serves as the Chicano and Latino Studies logo today.
The History and Evolution of the Chicano & Latino Studies Logo

The bird that is at the center of the Chicano & Latino Studies Department logo is known as a hummingbird in English. The original emblem has undergone some changes over the years, eventually becoming the official logo for the Chicano and Latino Studies Department.

panoramic photo of an art gallery
Virtual Exhibition Now Open - ¡Presente!: 50 Years of Chicano & Latino Studies

Seven Twin Cities artists and two art collectives produced artwork and performances that were inspired by the Chicano & Latino Studies Department’s archival documents housed at the UMN Libraries Archives & Special Collections. This exhibition is now available for virtual visitation.