National Hispanic Heritage Month – September 15th through October 15th
National Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration from September 15th through October 15th. Originally, beginning in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week, under President Lyndon Johnson; expanding in August of 1988 by President Ronald Reagan to the current 30-day period it is now. This annual celebration acknowledges the achievements and contributions of Hispanic Americans who continue to accomplish great success, while inspiring others.
During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize that Hispanic heritage is American heritage. We see it in every aspect of our national life: on our television and movie screens, in the music that moves our feet, and in the foods we enjoy. We benefit from the many contributions of Hispanic scientists working in labs across the country to help us fight COVID-19 and the doctors and the nurses on the front lines caring for people’s health. Our Nation is represented by Hispanic diplomats who share our values in countries all over the world and strengthened by military members and their families who serve and sacrifice for the United States. Our communities are represented by Hispanic elected officials, and our children are taught by Hispanic teachers. Our future will be shaped by Hispanic engineers who are working to develop new technology that will help us grasp our clean energy future and by the skilled union workers who are going to build it.
-President Joe Biden, 2021
September 15th not only marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month; it is also an extremely significant day of sovereignty in the Hispanic community. On this day years ago, Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua gained their independence from Spain. Between September 15th and October 15th Mexico and Chile also celebrate their Independence Day, along with holidays honoring the Hispanic culture.
This year, Hispanic Heritage Month’s theme is: Esperanza: “A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope.”
Looking for local event to attend in commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month?
Check out the links below for more information:
Puerto Rican Parade & Festival
Arts and Heritage Center Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
Ritmo del Sol: A Latin Jazz Celebration