Youngstown State University, in partnership with the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, will host the Hispanic Heritage Month Opening Ceremony at noon Thursday, Sept. 25, at the Main Library, 305 Wick Ave., Youngstown.

The program will include a flag ceremony representing 22 Hispanic countries and a keynote address by David Labra, founding member of The Labra Brothers and vice president of the boards for the Youngstown Hola Fest and Thrive Mahoning Valley.

A Youngstown native and Canfield High School graduate, Labra attended Youngstown State University before pursuing his music and community leadership endeavors.

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed nationally Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, honors the histories, cultures and contributions of Americans with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. YSU and its partners mark the month with cultural and educational events designed to celebrate diversity and strengthen connections with the community.

The Opening Ceremony is part of a series of programs organized by the YSU Hispanic Heritage Planning Committee, YSU Student Experience, YSU Sokolov Honors College and the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.

The event is free and open to the public.