Festivals, colorful flags, traditional dances, and delicious meals are what people do to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, but what Is Hispanic Heritage Month and what is it’s purpose? Although Hispanic cultures is celebrated every day, Hispanic Heritage Month is a month long celebration of Latino and Hispanic history and culture that acknowledges the impact that the Hispanic community had on the United States. This celebration starts from September 15 to October 15, which means it’s a month long celebration to honor the individuals from these Latin countries.
On September 17, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson officially declared Hispanic Heritage Week. The purpose of this week was to honor the positive and widespread impact that people of Hispanic descent have on the United States. President Johnson urged people, especially teachers, create a celebratory curriculum to educate people about Hispanic accomplishments. Hispanic Heritage Week became Hispanic Heritage Month under President Ronald Reagan in 1988.
Several Latin American countries celebrate their Independence Day on this period, which is why National Hispanic Heritage Month starts in the middle of September and ends in the middle of October. These countries include El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. Mexico celebrates Independence Day on September 16 and Chile commemorates its sovereignty on September 18.
Hispanic Heritage Month also celebrates people living in the United States who have ancestors in the above countries, which is what makes them Hispanic. Hispanic refers to individuals who speak Spanish or people from a Spanish-speaking country. Alternatively, Latino or latina refer to people from Latin America. Depending on personal preferences, someone with Hispanic or Latin ancestry may identify with one or both of these terms.
The purpose of this significant celebration is to honor the diversity of America’s history and development. There are multiple ways you can celebrate this month-long celebration, from attending festivals or seeking city-wide events. No matter where your from, everyone should be able to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and share this event with others.
