Hispanic Heritage Month
This month-long celebration recognizes the culture and contributions of those whose heritage is rooted in Latin American countries.
This month-long celebration recognizes the culture and contributions of those whose heritage is rooted in Latin American countries.
Marcella Lopez
Reviewer URLDate: September 15-October 15
This month-long celebration recognizes the culture and contributions of those whose heritage is rooted in Latin American countries.
Origin
Hispanic Heritage Month began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. Buoyed by the Chicano Movement of the 1960s, the week was recognized by California in June of 1968. President Lyndon Johnson made it a national holiday later that year. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded the holiday to a month.
Hispanic Heritage Months begins every year on September 15th and runs through October 15th. September 15th is the Independence Day for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. September 16th is the Independence Day for Mexico and September 18th is the Independence Day of Chile.
Traditions
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated throughout the U.S. with cultural events including book events, film festivals, art exhibits and musical performances. Many towns and cities have parades to celebrate. The White House also hosts a celebration every year, beginning with a presidential proclamation.
What to do
This is a great time to brush up on your history of Latinos in America. Celebrate Hispanic heritage by supporting Hispanic and Latine artists or buying from small businesses owned by these groups.