EC200 Bicentennial series concludes with Hispanic heritage at Roycroft in East Aurora

Fourth installment of Erie County Bicentennial Heritage Commemoration Series highlights WNY Hispanic Heritage District & WNY Hispanic History

The EC200 committee is celebrating the fourth and final event in the EC200 Heritage Commemoration Series, taking place from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, at the historic Roycroft Campus in East Aurora with an afternoon celebrating WNY Hispanic heritage. This free event will feature musical performances by Sol Y Sombra along with speakers discussing Hispanic heritage, with a focus on the WNY Hispanic Heritage District and the Hispanic Heritage Cultural Institute.

Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. This year’s theme is “Esperanza: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope.”

Esmeralda Sierra, president of the Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY, said, “For the Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY, it's a pleasure to partner with the Roycroft Campus to celebrate Hispanic history, heritage and culture. Commemorations, such as Hispanic Heritage Month, are fundamental to preserving history. Events and collaborations like this are an excellent opportunity to educate all generations on our history, heritage, culture and traditions. As an organization, we are proud to collaborate with the Roycroft Campus to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of our community, with hopes to inspire newer generations of Hispanics to feel a sense of pride, and foster appreciation for the Hispanic culture from the community at large.”

Casimiro Rodriguez Sr., chair of the diversity and inclusion committee of the Erie County Bicentennial Committee, said, “Buffalo has been a beacon of hope to people from around the globe for 200 years. Our unique, diverse stories are woven into the tapestry of our community and our lives. This celebration honors the spirit and dedication of people committed to diversity and inclusion in a celebration that unites and bonds us all.”

The campus’ visitor center will be open for guests to explore the Roycroft’s history. The Copper Shop Gallery & Gift Shop features the work of over 100 local and international artists as well as a wide variety of home goods and unique gifts.

Speakers between musical selections will include Sierra; Kelly S. Hernandez, Wellcare community relations outreach specialist and HHC director; Miguel Santos, consumer advocate for National Grid; and Rodríguez, president emeritus and founder of the Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY Inc.

Free samples of Hispanic food and drinks will be available while supplies last thanks to the generosity of Goya Foods. Flying Bison Brewing Co. will also offer beer tastings. Attendees should bring their own blankets or chairs and may also bring their own refreshments; they are also asked to observe a carry-in/carry-out policy for food and trash.

Masks should be worn while entering and exiting the event space and when purchasing food or drinks or using the restroom.