Public Speaking Students Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Through Culture and Communication

As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, Kris Acevedo's, Ed.D, Public Speaking class attended Riverside City College’s annual Lowrider Car Show—a vibrant celebration of creativity, artistry, and cultural pride. The event gave students a meaningful opportunity to connect their coursework with real-world examples of communication. In public speaking, understanding audience, context, and storytelling are essential skills, and the Lowrider Car Show served as a living example of these concepts in action. Each car and design carried a unique story of heritage, resilience, and identity.

The class gathered to admire beautifully restored lowriders, reflecting on how communication extends beyond speeches and presentations. By observing how individuals express themselves through art, tradition, and community engagement, students deepened their appreciation for diverse forms of communication.

As one student reflected, “The Lowrider Car Show helped me see that communication goes beyond words. Each car told a story about family, culture, and resilience. It inspired me to think more deeply about the stories I share in my speeches.”

Another added, “Attending the car show connected directly to Dr. Acevedo’s lecture on audience analysis and context in public speaking. Seeing how people express themselves through art and tradition gave me new ideas for how to connect with my audience.”

Experiences like this remind students that public speaking is not just about delivering a message—it is also about honoring stories and listening deeply. One student captured this insight, stating, “Watching how culture was celebrated through lowriders made me want to be more intentional with my own messages. This goes back to Dr. Acevedo’s lecture on listening versus hearing in a new meaning.”

Events such as the Lowrider Car Show highlight RCC’s ongoing commitment to equity, belonging, and student success—ensuring that students see themselves reflected in the life of the college while celebrating the richness of Hispanic and Latinx heritage.