The History and Evolution of the Chicano & Latino Studies Logo

The bird that is at the center of the Chicano & Latino Studies department's logo is known as a hummingbird in English. Better yet, it is known as a colibrí in Spanish and as a huitzilin in Nahuatl. The image of the colibrí has remained a central figure of the department representing strength and resilience.

In many Nahua communities, huitzilin (the hummingbird) is respected and honored for its willpower and perseverance. Huitziltin are so strong and willful, they often protect their territory by challenging and driving away large birds of prey with their tenacity. Another entity in Nahua cultures that relates to huitziltin is Huitzilopochtli. Huitzilopochtli is a force that represents willingness and resiliency. It is said that when we manifest these traits, we exemplify the energies of Huitzilopochtli. Huitzilopochtli is also another name for the sun and many of its characteristics.

The first rendition of the Chicano & Latino studies emblem was designed by the community and departmental activist Ray Roybal. Pictured here, in the Chicano Art Exhibit poster of 1977, is an example of what the emblem looked like in the early days of the department. 

The original emblem has undergone some changes over the years, eventually becoming the official logo for the Chicano and Latino Studies department. In 2018, Jessica Lopez Lyman, now an assistant professor in the department, undertook the task of updating the logo, resulting in some minor design changes. The most notable addition is the words around the imagery that read "Chicano and Latino Studies," "Since 1971," and "University of Minnesota." It has been the symbol of the department since then and we hope you can join in our celebration of 50 years of strength and resilience.