Today is the end of Hispanic Heritage Month. We cannot forget all the historical and cultural moments that impacted the Latino and Hispanic communities. Latinos and Latinas continue to shape the U.S. as strong leaders and changemakers in public service, media, business, medical fields, military, and more!
When is Hispanic Heritage Month?
Every year, Hispanic Heritage Month starts from September 15 to October 15. It all started with Congressman George E. Brown, with 19 cosponsors (sponsored first by two Hispanic Congressmen), who introduced the National Hispanic Heritage Week bill on June 11, 1968, according to National Archives. On September 17, 1968, President Lyndon Johnson signed the legislation. According to GovInfo, the document states, “…That the President is hereby authorized and requested to issue annually a proclamation designating the week including September 15 and 16 as “National Hispanic Heritage Week” and calling upon the people of the United States, especially the educational community, to observe such week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.” Then, 20 years later, President Ronald Regan extended the holiday week to 30 days into law, according to National Archives.
Why is it Important?
We celebrate the recognition and the contributions in the American Hispanic and Latino communities. The first week of Hispanic Heritage Month is also Independence Day for some Latin American countries. And some of the Hispanic and Latino culture influences America’s culture.
For example, according to Endeavors, Spain and Mexico initially brought the style of cowboy hats and rodeos. Montana, Colorado, California, Florida, New Mexico, and Nevada were some states named after the Spanish. According to the Museum of the American Revolution, Spanish territorial areas in Central and South America helped the United States during the Revolutionary War. And we cannot forget the three most common delicious dishes that most people in America love to eat… You guessed it: Tacos, Burritos, and Nachos! Yes, they were made in Mexico, too!
