Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month September 15- October 15, 2021

Every year from September 15 to October 15, Americans celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month by appreciating the community’s history, heritage, and contributions of the ancestors of American citizens who came from Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and South- and Central America. 

Hispanic Heritage Month originally started with one week of commemoration when it was first introduced by Congressman George E. Brown in June 1968. With the civil rights movement, the need to recognize the contributions of the Latin community gained traction in the 1960s. Awareness of the multicultural groups living in the United States was also gradually growing. 

Two heavily Latinx and Hispanic populated areas, the San Gabriel Valley and East Los Angeles, were represented by Brown. His aim was to recognize the integral roles of these communities in American history. Observation of Hispanic Heritage Week started in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was later extended to a 30-day celebration by President Ronald Reagan, starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law via approval of Public Law 100-402 on August 17, 1988. 

September 15 is set as the starting date for the month as it is important for many reasons. It is the independence anniversary for Latin American countries El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras. From here onwards, the independence days of Mexico and Chile fall on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Dia de la Raza or Columbus Day also falls within this month, on October 12.

Hispanic Americans have been integral to the prosperity of the U.S. Their contributions to the nation are immeasurable, and they embody the best of American values. The Hispanic-American community has left an indelible mark on the U.S. culture and economy.

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH TIMELINE

1777 – Fighting for Freedom

The Spanish governor of Louisiana, Bernardo de Gálvez, joins General George Washington's fight against British soldiers and helps win independence.

1845 – Texas Becomes a U.S. State

Texas joins the Union as the 28th state — Mexico had controlled the territory until 1836 when Texas won its independence.

1945 – Brothers in Arms

Over 300,000 Latinos enlist in the American military and fight in World War II.

1960s – Calls for Recognition

The push to recognize the Latinx community gains momentum when the civil rights movement is at its peak.

June 1968- Hispanic Heritage Week

California Congressman George E. Brown introduces Hispanic Heritage Week.

1988 – Month Established

Hispanic Heritage Week is first observed under President Lyndon B. Johnson, but it is Ronald Reagan who extends it to a month-long celebration.

July 1, 2019 – Largest Minority

The Hispanic population of the United States totals 60.6 million people, making it the largest ethnic minority.

2020 – Highlighting Hispanic Employees

The U.S. Department of State highlights biographies of outstanding Hispanic employees who support diplomatic efforts around the world.

 

Source: HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH --September 2021 | National Today