National Hispanic Heritage Month September 15 to October 15
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Puerto Rico celebrates its independence on September 23. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.
Hispanic Heritage Month takes place September 15 to October 15 every year as a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino community. Beginning in 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month was originally observed as “Hispanic Heritage Week” under President Lyndon Johnson, but it was later extended to a month during President Ronald Reagan’s term in 1988.
Since then, the month has been celebrated nationwide through festivals, art shows, conferences, community gatherings, and much more. The month also celebrates the independence days of several Latin American countries, including: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15th, Mexico on September 16th, and Chile on September 18th. They also include holidays that recognize Hispanic contributions such as Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day that is celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
On September 14, 2021, President Biden issued a presidential proclamation on National Hispanic Heritage Month (Spanish):
“During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize that Hispanic heritage is American heritage. We see it in every aspect of our national life: on our television and movie screens, in the music that moves our feet, and in the foods we enjoy. We benefit from the many contributions of Hispanic scientists working in labs across the country to help us fight COVID-19 and the doctors and the nurses on the front lines caring for people’s health. Our Nation is represented by Hispanic diplomats who share our values in countries all over the world and strengthened by military members and their families who serve and sacrifice for the United States. Our communities are represented by Hispanic elected officials, and our children are taught by Hispanic teachers. Our future will be shaped by Hispanic engineers who are working to develop new technology that will help us grasp our clean energy future and by the skilled union workers who are going to build it.”
Latino educators, scientists, artists, and other professionals help make our communities more resilient & equitable. In a video to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Secretary Cardona emphasizes that Latino voices, dreams & successes matter now more than ever.
For more information:
National Hispanic Heritage Month: https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about/
NEA Hispanic Heritage Month Kids Activities: https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/tools-tips/hispanic-heritage-month
White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics – National Hispanic heritage Month: https://sites.ed.gov/hispanic-initiative/national-hispanic-heritage-month/
