HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

From September 15th through October 15th, we recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. During the four weeks, celebrations honor the heritage and contributions made by members of the Hispanic community. With great fanfare, celebrations sweep across Latin America, Central American, and Mexico, and Chili commemorating each country's independence from week to week!

#HispanicHeritageMonth

The Hispanic population has grown to nearly 62 million people in the United States. since 2020. According to Pew Research data, that number may be higher since not all who are of Hispanic descent identify as Hispanic. Furthermore, that same year, more than half of the Hispanic population were registered to vote, a historic milestone.  As the Hispanic population grows, more opportunity presents itself to embrace the rich culture and vast history they share. From coast to coast, we celebrate Hispanic heritage every day in mainstream society. It is not only reflecting our cultural differences; it adds a different perspective to our lives for us to enjoy.

Amazing Contributions

Hispanic people across the country contribute to society in unprecedented ways. Historically, Alberto Gonzales is credited as being the first Hispanic U.S. Attorney General, while Mel Martinez is considered the first Cuban-American U.S. Senator. Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, both members of the Hispanic community, served as members of the U.S. Senate. Sonia Sotomayor is the first Hispanic to sit as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice. Undeniably, representation from the Hispanic community is also found in schools, public offices, medical, fashion, and every aspect of business.

In addition, pop culture contributions by the Hispanic community flourishes thanks to many talented artists, such as Salma Hayek, George Lopez, Carlos Santana, and Jennifer Lopez. Finally, we need to give credit to the countless tasty Hispanic recipes found across the nation. Hispanic food has increasingly become a part of mainstream Americana. We relish the flavor and spice deeply infused into the traditions. Dishes ranging from tacos and tamales to Cuban sandwiches, tequila, and Mojitos, entice us to enjoy the Hispanic heritage, one bite at a time.

HOW TO OBSERVE #HispanicHeritageMonth

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by joining local celebrations. It is a fantastic way to meet new people. Additionally, you can learn more about the contributions Hispanics have made in politics, business, the arts, sports, fashion, and cuisine, to name a few. Embracing the history and traditions of another culture not only broadens your knowledge, but it also teaches appreciation of other people and their customs.

Join Priscilla Subramaniyam on her Positivity: Pass It on Channel for interviews throughout the month. We've included the first one below.

Use #HispanicHeritageMonth in social media correspondence.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH HISTORY

Originally, President Lyndon Johnson declared Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. Through later legislation submitted by U.S. Rep. Esteban Torres (D-California), the week expanded to National Hispanic Heritage Month under the direction of President Ronald Reagan in 1988. Festivities begin on September 15th, marking the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.