Contributed by ACC’s Teaching & Learning Excellence Division
April is a time to recognize and celebrate culture, awareness, and sustainability. Austin Community College (ACC) honors Arab American Heritage Month by highlighting the rich culture and contributions of Arab Americans, recognizes Autism Acceptance Month by encouraging a more inclusive and accepting environment for people on the autism spectrum, and celebrates Earth Week (April 22–26) by promoting mindful, sustainable actions to care for our planet.
Throughout April, ACC will host events and share resources to recognize Arab American Heritage Month, Autism Acceptance Month, and Earth Week. These offerings will highlight cultural contributions, promote awareness, and encourage sustainable practices.
Join in on the celebration and view events, resources, and more on the Teaching & Learning Excellence Division’s (TLED) Cultural Mosaic: April Tiles site.
Library Services’ Arab American Heritage Month Virtual Display
Explore Library Services’ Arab American Heritage Month Virtual Display to learn more about Arab American voices, stories, and heritage. Dive into books, films, and online resources that celebrate this vibrant and diverse community. Honor Arab American Heritage Month through discovery, education, and appreciation.
Autism Acceptance Month Event
Friday, April 11 | Autism Acceptance at ACC
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: ACC Highland Campus, Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation Center, Building 4000, Room 4.2205
About: Join an engaging and inclusive event exploring neurodiversity through art, discussion, and community connection. The event will include a reflective, abstract painting session, role-play scenarios to improve student support, and talks centered on neurodiversity, inclusive teaching, and healing. Food will be provided.
Cultural Center Showcase: Earth Week Events
Friday, April 18 | Nature Trail Cleanup & Zero-Waste Lunch
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: ACC Northridge Campus, Asian American & Pacific Islander Cultural Center, Portable 4
About: The Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Cultural Center at ACC is hosting a Nature Trail Cleanup & Zero-Waste Lunch to celebrate Earth Week. Join a hike and help clean up the Walnut Creek trail near ACC Northridge – RSVP Here.
Monday, April 21 | Planting Seeds & Community Art Project
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: ACC Eastview Campus, African American Cultural Center, Building 2000, Room 2133
About: You’re invited to the African American Cultural Center at ACC’s Eastview Campus for a collaborative planting activity symbolizing growth and legacy.
Tuesday, April 22 | Earth Week Opening Ceremony & Resource Fair
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: ACC Highland Campus, Building 2000, Paseo (Outdoors)
About: Kick off Earth Week at ACC with the Opening Ceremony & Resource Fair, featuring a keynote on the intersection of cultural heritage and sustainability. Learn about ACC’s Cultural Centers and their role in advancing sustainability efforts.
Wednesday, April 23 | Moment for the Earth: Hike & Soccer Game
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Where: ACC Riverside Campus, Latin American Cultural Center, Building G, Room 9143
About: Enjoy a group hike exploring Latin American perspectives on environmental justice, followed by a community soccer game that highlights sustainability through sports and wellness.
Thursday, April 24 | Healing for the Earth
Time: Noon to 2 p.m.
Where: ACC Highland Campus, Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation Center, Building 4000, Room 4.2205
About: Explore the connection between racial healing and sustainable communities. The event features Echoes of the Earth, an interactive activity where participants write affirmations and commitments on biodegradable paper to be planted.
Friday, April 25 | Gratitude & Greenery: A Gathering of Growth
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
Where: ACC Eastview Campus, African American Cultural Center, Building 2000, Room 2133
About: Join an appreciation event honoring faculty and staff for their contributions to sustainability and student success. Activities include Letters to the Future, where participants write reflections envisioning the future of sustainability at ACC, to be revisited next Earth Week.