Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15, is an annual observance of the vibrant history and culture of Hispanic people in the United States. It also serves as a reminder of the significant contributions of Hispanic Americans to American life and progress.
Latin and Spanish cultures are renowned for their rich traditions, vibrant celebrations and deep sense of community. But two of the most defining core elements are family and food. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the importance of those two things in Hispanic cultures and the ways that they intertwine to create a beautiful way of life.
The Library of Congress hosts a multifaceted series of online resources for National Hispanic Heritage Month. Its Hispanic Heritage Collection includes historical documents, videos, online exhibits and bilingual blogs. It also includes information on historic places associated with Hispanic culture and achievement. And it offers a place to learn about the contributions of Hispanic Americans in science, arts and literature, as well as in politics and business.
There are many events across the country that showcase Hispanic heritage and culture this month. The New York Latino Film Festival runs Sept. 17-22, and the Viva Tampa Bay Hispanic Heritage Festival is Sept. 28-29. The Smithsonian is offering a slate of activities that elevate Hispanic heritage, including a celebration of Celia Cruz and exhibits featuring art made in Mexico.
Hispanic Heritage Month originally started as a weeklong celebration, created through legislation sponsored by Mexican American Rep. Edward R. Roybal and signed into law in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. It was expanded to a month two decades later. The celebration occurs in the middle of September because it marks the anniversary of the “Cry of Dolores,” or Grito de Dolores, the call from a village in central Mexico that launched the war for independence from Spain.
Those who celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month say that it is important to be aware of the diversity within the Latino community, and that it is equally important to support Hispanic communities. The celebration is not just about food and music, but about a legacy of struggle, courage and accomplishment.
There is much that can be learned from these diverse experiences, and they deserve our respect.
Some of the ways that we can show our support include celebrating our heritage by eating a favorite Hispanic dish or enjoying a margarita, decorating our homes with sombreros and papel picado, learning a new Spanish word each day or listening to Latino artists at a local concert. The most important thing, however, is to simply recognize that we live in a multicultural nation and that Hispanic and Latino cultures are a vital part of it. The contributions and experiences of this community are a necessary and positive addition to our American story. And it’s an opportunity for all of us to better understand our shared history and future together.