As the nation marks Hispanic Heritage Month, NPR is celebrating the cultures and traditions of Latinos, and exploring what makes up this vibrant community.
The Hispanic Heritage Month holiday started as a week in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson, and 20 years later was expanded to a month by President Ronald Reagan. The celebration honors the contributions of Hispanic Americans, including artists, athletes, scientists, and government leaders.
NPR is using the occasion to highlight stories that illustrate the indelible mark Hispanics have made on our country. You can read them in our Hispanic Heritage Month blog, and on NPR’s website.
We are also showcasing a series of stories about people who work to advance the rights and opportunities of the Latino community. From a family’s legal battle against segregation to the heroic actions of a WWII Army soldier, their stories are meant to inspire us all.
Hispanics are a vital part of the United States. From our cities to the farms that feed our nation, they make a difference. They are the fastest growing segment of the population, and they contribute to America’s Gross Domestic Product. However, they are still struggling to improve their financial well-being. In fact, a recent survey found that Hispanic families have lower wealth levels than other American households.
They are also a powerful force in our democracy. From a first lady to the first Hispanic senator and Supreme Court justice, we are seeing more and more Latinos in leadership roles. Today, over 136,000 Latinas and Latinos serve in the military, and 60 have earned the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest award for bravery in combat. They are doctors, lawyers, and business owners, and they are the heart of our communities.
Their story is our story, and we’re highlighting some of their achievements to show our pride and appreciation for their hard work. We are also shining a spotlight on some of the barriers they continue to face, and what we can do to help them achieve their dreams.
While the term Hispanic can be misleading, it is important to remember that just one descriptor can hardly capture the rich cultures and histories of a group that extends from present-day Southwestern U.S. states to the southernmost tip of South America and every place in between. That’s why you will see people use the terms Latina, Latino, and its non-gendered versions, and even Chicano, Taino, Boricua and other alternatives.