What is Hispanic Heritage Month?

The celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture, or also know as Hispanic Heritage Month; starts on September 15 and ends on the 15th of October. During this celebration we give extra recognition to many contributions made in the history , including important political work, art, popular and traditional foods, music, and much more. Hispanic Heritage Month also helps recognize the day some Central American countries celebrate their independence. Key Independence Days celebrated within Hispanic Heritage Month include:

• September 15 – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
• September 16 – Mexico
• September 18 – Chile
• September 21 – Belize

Why is Hispanic Heritage Month Important?

It’s important to remember that Latinos and Latinas have not only had a great impact on their own countries, but have also had a crucial impact in the United States and all over the world. It just as important for the Latino community to be recognized and represented just as any other Americans are recognized and represented.

What is the difference between Hispanic and Latino?

According to the Duke School of Medicine: Hispanic refers to a person with ancestry from a country whose primary language is Spanish. Latino and its variations refer to a person with origins from anywhere in Latin America (Mexico, South and Central America) and the Caribbean.

Contributions!

To show your support for the Latino community you can go to activities anywhere near you starting from events or programs like art exhibits, workshops, museums, performances, food festivals, film festivals, and parades!