The Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies (CLLAS) is one of the oldest programs of its kind and has served as a gateway for students interested in Latino/a and Latin American Studies at Wayne State University for more than four decades.

We serve Detroit and the surrounding communities through a multi-faceted mission of student services programs, Latino/a advocacy on campus, community outreach and research. CLLAS has served as a training ground for students working in labor organizing, education, government, private industry, and the non-profit sector where expertise in Latino/a and Latin American Studies has added professional value.

History

The Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies was established in 1971 as the Latino en Marcha Leadership Training Program by Wayne State University, Latin Americans for Social and Economic Development (LA SED) and New Detroit, Inc. In 1972, the program became a full-fledged academic center and was renamed the Center for Chicano-Boricua Studies, reflecting the two ethnic groups that had worked side-by-side to create the program. In 2011, the center's name changed to the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies, celebrating our multi-ethnic community.

Logo

The center's original sunflower logo was designed by Marie Cuello, a long-time CLLAS friend and supporter.