Across the United States, people are gearing up for big celebrations in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, a special time dedicated to highlighting the rich diversity and cultural heritage of Hispanic communities.
This month-long observance, running from September 15 to October 15, encourages Americans to learn about and celebrate the significant contributions of Hispanics, who are recognized as the fastest-growing racial or ethnic group in the country, according to census data. This group encompasses individuals with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, as well as Central and South America.
As of the latest census estimates, over 65 million individuals in the U.S. identify as Hispanic.
Heritage Week Celebrates Latino Histories
Before National Hispanic Heritage Month came into existence, there was Hispanic Heritage Week. This week was established through legislation sponsored by Mexican American Representative Edward R. Roybal of Los Angeles and was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968.
Two decades later, this week-long celebration was expanded into a month by legislation signed by President Ronald Reagan.
Alberto Lammers, the director of communications at the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute, explained that these celebrations created an opportunity for people to better understand Hispanic cultures, allowing Latinos to connect with their communities and for the wider American public to learn more about the long-standing history of Latinos in the U.S.
The month provides a platform for Hispanics to proudly display their diverse cultures, supported by the government, as noted by Rachel Gonzalez-Martin, an associate professor of Mexican American and Latino Studies at the University of Texas at Austin.
The start date of September 15 coincides with the anniversary of “El Grito de Dolores,” or the “Cry of Dolores,” which marked the beginning of Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spain in 1810.
Additionally, Central American nations such as Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica celebrate their independence on September 15. Mexico follows suit on September 16, the day after its initial cry for independence. Chile also celebrates its independence on September 18, while the U.S. observes Indigenous Peoples’ Day, formerly Columbus Day, on the second Monday of October.
In recent years, the significance of this month has grown, thanks to the increasing Latino consumer base in the U.S., as well as visible federal government support, such as celebrations held at the White House, which have made it easier for Hispanics to partake in these festivities.
“Hispanic Heritage Month represents an acknowledgment of being Hispanic and Latino, with official recognition,” Gonzalez-Martin stated. “This recognition of belonging is incredibly powerful.”
This four-week observation serves to honor the impact Hispanic populations have made on U.S. history and society, according to Lammers.
“It gives us an opportunity to recognize how Latinos have contributed to this nation for centuries,” Lammers said. “This month has allowed us to delve deeper and share our stories.”
Not Everyone Identifies as Hispanic
The term “Hispanic” was created by the federal government to describe individuals with Spanish-speaking heritage. However, some view this label as politically conservative and feel it emphasizes a connection to Spain, leading to confusion with terms like “Latino” or “Latinx.”
For many, “Latino” reflects their connection to Latin America, and as such, some celebrations may be referred to as Latinx or Latin Heritage Month.
It’s important to recognize that Latin Americans are not a single, unified group. People often identify themselves based on personal preferences. For instance, Mexican Americans from the Civil Rights era may choose to identify as Chicano, while others might use their specific national heritage, such as Colombian American or Salvadoran American.
Each culture boasts its own unique traditions, evident in differences in music, food, art, and more.
Festivities Throughout the Month
From California to Florida, celebrations will abound, featuring traditional Latin foods and entertainment like mariachi bands, folklórico dancing, and salsa lessons. The aim is to highlight the cultures of Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and other Latin American countries.
Upcoming events include a quinceañera fashion show in Dallas on September 14, the New York Latino Film Festival running from September 17 to 22, and the Viva Tampa Bay Hispanic Heritage Festival occurring on September 28 and 29.
The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., is also hosting a range of activities honoring Hispanic heritage, including tributes to the life of Celia Cruz and exhibitions showcasing Mexican art.
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Contributions to this report were made by Associated Press writer Terry Tang.
