by Natalia Velador, staff writer
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15th to October 15th the celebration of various cultures and histories ensues. The contributions of American citizens who share ancestry with Spain, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Central America are being praised and acknowledged. This celebration of Hispanic culture began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. It then expanded to cover 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks) and was officially enacted into law on August 17, 1988, by President Ronald Reagan.
September 15th was specifically chosen as the start of Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) because of the significance it holds for many Latin American Countries. For Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, September 15th is their Independence Day. That’s five countries in one day and on the next day, September 16th, it’s Mexico's Independence Day. A total of 7 countries in Latin America have their Independence Day in September, including Chile on the 18th.
The importance of this month cannot be overstated as it honors the diversity and strength that Hispanic people have brought to this country. Shining the light on the achievements and experiences of the Hispanic community allows for unity and understanding, which helps show the true prosperity for Hispanics within this nation.
Some notable figures in American history would be Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta. Both were instrumental to the civil rights movement and strong labor leaders. Luis Alvarez was part of the world-changing Manhattan Project, which created the first atomic bombs. Lin-Manuel Miranda is an award-winning composer and playwright who created the Broadway musical Hamilton. Sylvia Rivera is the queer activist who advocated for equal rights in all sectors of life. We continue to celebrate the hundreds of more who have left their mark on history.
The impact Hispanic people have made in the U.S. is truly astonishing. It’s a beautiful thing to see the change and innovation that comes with diversity and how it brings new strength and life to a nation. Understanding and acceptance allow for change to occur when barriers are torn down instead of made. To be able to learn and open yourself up to new experiences and perspectives is not always easy, but it is always worth it. The knowledge gained can never be taken away and for that, we celebrate.
Sources:
“Hispanic Heritage Month 2023.” U.S. Department of State. September 15, 2023. https://www.state.gov/hispanic-heritage-month-2023/
“Hispanic Heritage Month.” Smithsonian. https://latino.si.edu/hispanic-heritage-month