In 1971, first organized under the name Association of Mexican American Students, what would later become LASU, formed. The Kansan notes, its first mission was to develop "an identity and a sense of community for Chicano students at the University".
In 1974, the group changed it's name to Movimiento Estuadiantil Chicano de Aztlan.
A performance showcasing Hispanic music and dance sponsored by HALO in front of the Kansas Memorial Union, October 17, 1997. Photographs by Scott Harper. University Archives Photos. Call Number: RG 67/593 1997 Negatives: Student Organizations: Hispanic American Leadership Organization (Photos).
From 1986-2016 we were organized under the name Hispanic American Leadership Organization or HALO. This shift was to more effectively represent all Hispanic diversity at KU, Chicano or non-Chicano. Our mission centered on meeting the various academic, cultural and social needs of the KU Hispanic student population. In 2008, HALO won Organization of the Year for Student Life Enrichment.
HALO members visit Schaake's Pumpkin Patch, 2014
HALO members at the 27th Annual Student Conference On Latino Affair's, 2015
On August 29, 2017 executive members voted to change the groups name to the Latin American Student Union. Hailey Dixon of the University Daily Kansan interviewed exec members and wrote "Ruiz Cervantes and Laura Suarez, LASU community service chair, both said that the name change reflects more inclusivity..."
Executive members of the newly coined Latin American Student Union stand together for a photo, August, 2017
LASU, 2021-2022
LASU, 2021-2022
LASU, 2022-2023
Such documentation provides a deeper understanding of the complex cultural, political, and social landscape of the region, allowing students to grasp current issues, recognize the diverse experiences of Latino communities, and appreciate the significant contributions of Latin American people to global history, especially in relation to the United States, where many Latino populations reside.se, but we see the impactful history left behind from our Alumni. By taking up this important space not only do we show up for our Latinx/e Heritage but we set a powerful example for the next generations of Latin KU students.
October 5th, 2017 - KU LASU Members at a Minority Solidarity Silent Protest on Wescoe Beach
Join The Latin American Student Union today and help us continue to build impactful memories.
¡Juntos somos más fuertes!
Watch these amazing Ted Talks giving by Latin American Women regarding unique identity experiences, the historical yet ongoing struggles and ways to overcome them!