Hispanic Heritage Month spans from September 15 to October 15. This month-long celebration honors Hispanic heritage by highlighting the perseverance and contributions of Hispanic people throughout U.S. history. September 15 is particularly significant as many Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, celebrate their independence on this day. Additionally, countries like Mexico observe their independence on dates close to September 15.
According to Census.gov, Hispanic Heritage Month was first celebrated in 1968 after President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed a week in 1968 to appreciate the contributions of Americans with Hispanic heritage. Beyond celebrating the independence of Hispanic and Latin American countries, this month also promotes art, culture, and social justice. The year 2020, in particular, highlighted the perseverance of Hispanic community members who own businesses during the pandemic. Facing unequal opportunities, small businesses run by Latinx individuals demonstrated a pure form of determination in pursuing the American dream, even in trying times.
During this month, Americans remember prominent figures of Hispanic descent who have made significant impacts on the lives of many in the United States. For example, Cesar Chavez, a Mexican-American activist, championed the rights of migrant workers exploited due to their immigrant status and language barriers. Through nonviolent methods such as boycotting products (like the Delano Grape Strike, where Chavez joined the mostly Filipino strike on California grape farms) and hunger strikes, he successfully fought for rightful pay for farm laborers. According to the editors of History.com, Chavez helped create the United Farm Workers organization, which achieved higher pay and better working conditions in states such as California, Texas, Arizona, and Florida.
“It is important to stay connected to one’s culture and celebrate the rich history behind holidays and months that commemorate the achievements of different nationalities within the United States.”
Thus, September 15 to October 15 is an important time for the nearly 61 million Hispanic people living in the United States today (Pew Research). It is crucial to stay connected to one’s culture and celebrate the rich history behind holidays and months that honor the achievements of different nationalities within the United States.
(picture credits) In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Maegan Dumapias (class of 2021) illustrates Selena Quintanilla, one of the most iconic Hispanic individuals to ever live. She was a Hispanic-American singer who grew up in Texas. Her music is still played around the world today as people cherish her lasting legacy as a prominent singer decades after her death. Sadly, she suffered a tragic death on March 31, 1995. So, as we remember prominent figures throughout South and North America during this month, Selena’s name is sure to come up.
