National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the cultures of American citizens whose ancestors hail from Mexico, parts of the Caribbean and Central and South America. It started as a weeklong celebration in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson, and was expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan 20 years later.
The observance is an opportunity to explore the history and traditions of Latinos, and it can be done in a variety of ways. The Smithsonian Institution, for example, is partnering with Lil’ Libros, a bilingual children’s book publisher, for a slate of events that elevate Hispanic heritage. Activities include story times, arts and crafts workshops and gallery tours. The U.S. Postal Service is also getting in on the action with new Forever stamps featuring pinatas, the handmade party favorites that people often dangle blindfolded from trees at birthday parties. The stamps are a reminder that the artful decorations, with their origins in the 16th century, are also a vital part of Latino culture and history.
Families can also learn from online learning resources like the Hispanic Heritage Initiative’s “Local Heroes” video series, which profiles military and civilian heroes who are making a difference in their communities. In addition, museums like the U.S. National Museum of the American Latino, which Congress established in 2020, have programming and online resources to help students understand the many contributions of Hispanics and Latinos throughout U.S. history and across all fields of study.
In many ways, the most important way to honor Hispanic heritage is to talk with your family members and friends about their roots. “You can start with a simple conversation, talking about the foods they eat, the music they listen to, the dances they participate in,” Key said. “The more you have these conversations, the better understanding you’ll have of who they are.”
It’s important to remember that Hispanics and Latinos aren’t a monolithic community. Depending on their personal preferences, some may identify as Mexican American or Chicano, while others may prefer to go by their nation of origin such as Colombian or Salvadoran. The various identifiers, she added, all reflect the diversity of this rich culture.
One of the best ways to learn about another culture is through its traditions and celebrations, which is why it’s so important to participate in Hispanic heritage festivities. You can join a community celebration, such as a fiesta, or visit an iconic landmark that showcases a specific Hispanic culture, like La Casa Azul, the former home of artist Frida Kahlo. Or, you can check out an exhibition of Latino artists or watch a documentary on the history of Latinos in the United States.