A Diversity Council comprised of EPCC employees and community members was created to examine the various facets of diversity at the College and to increase support for current and future Diversity Program activities.
The Diversity and Inclusion Programs Office strives to foster and promote cultural awareness and respect among employees, our students, and the surrounding El Paso community. Our target is to educate and disseminate information that highlights and celebrates the numerous cultures which construct and impact our world.
For more information or if you would like to participate, please contact the Diversity and Inclusion Programs District Office.
Annual Events and Initiatives
Black History Month
Celebrating the History and Culture of African-Americans in the United States
The “heritage month” begins Feb. 1 in the United Stated and Canada, and celebrates African-American contributions to American culture and also serves as a reminder of the tribulations African-Americans have had to endure to obtain the freedoms that America’s forefathers promised its people when “all men are created equal” was written in the Declaration of Independence.
African-Americans have been on the forefront of the civil rights fight to uphold this oft-quoted American ideal since their emancipation from slavery in 1865, and their granting of full citizenship in 1868 with the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Although blacks have been in America at least as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a respectable presence in the history books. El Paso Community College hosts and celebrates special programs, events, and cultural exhibits to celebrate the heritage, culture, and contributions of African Americans.
Hispanic Heritage
The celebration of people of diverse Spanish-speaking backgrounds in the United States
Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 16 to October 14. El Paso Community College hosts special programs, events, and cultural exhibits to celebrate the heritage, culture, and contributions of Hispanic Americans.
Celebration of Hispanic Heritage began in 1968 with PUBLIC LAW 90-498, Approved September 17, 1968, 90th Congress, which designated the week including September 15 and 16 as "National Hispanic Heritage Week." Hispanic Heritage Week was selected to coincide with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua's Independence Day celebrations on September 15, and Mexico's on September 16.
Hispanic Americans play an important role in shaping America and our community. El Paso Community College celebrates the influence of the Hispanic culture in American life.
SAFE Zone
SAFE Zone is an educational program that is committed to increasing understanding and awareness around how to foster an inclusive and welcoming climate for the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning) community. This is a faculty-led initiative in collaboration with Diversity & Inclusion programs.