Being an adult immigrant to this country, I only recently learned about the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month. There is a common question about why the month covers half of September and half of October, and the answer is quite meaningful. There are several significant events to be celebrated by various communities within this 30-day period. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Chile celebrate their independence within this timeframe. Dia de la Raza, which recognizes the blend of indigenous and European or mestizo heritage across Spanish speaking countries is observed on October 12.
The celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States was initially created as” National Hispanic Heritage Week” under President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968. It is said he never forgot where he came from when he got to The White House. According to the National Constitution Center, he was assigned to a tiny impoverished Hispanic school on the border of Mexico while attending Southwest Texas State Teachers College. This may be one of many reasons why the 36th President signed the National Hispanic Heritage Week bill into law.
The celebration was later expanded to cover a 30-day period in 1988, by President Ronald Reagan. Hispanic Heritage Month is observed every year from September 15 to October 15. I find the expansion of this celebration to be a great parallel to how our country and even our city has become more multicultural over the years.
The 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month national theme is “Todos Somos, Somos Uno: We are all, We Are One”. Hispanic culture, values, and contributions and the power of diversity should inspire us to remember and celebrate this year's theme. It should be an invitation to learn about other cultures in general so you can interact with others in a more meaningful way. In addition to celebrating our similarities and differences, cultural awareness enables us to empower people to achieve their potential.
Just like there’s no one-size-fits-all Hispanic, there’s no one way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! I invite you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with me and honor the rich diversity of cultures, traditions, and history of the Hispanic community. Taking the initiative to support a small Hispanic owned business, trying out a traditional food recipe (I am partial to Salvadoran pupusas!), visiting a local restaurant, attending a festival, restarting your language learning app or just showing kindness to others makes a difference!
Itala Milan- Language Services Director
2023 National Hispanic Heritage Month Poster
by Mr. Boris A. Jiron