Each year, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 to recognize the history and cultures of the Hispanic and Latino peoples.
According to the 2020 census, the following categories include those who identify as Hispanic or Latino: “Mexican, Mexican American, Chicano,” “Puerto Rican,” “Cuban,” and “other Hispanic, Latino, and Spanish origin.”
In June 1968, Congressman George E. Brown first introduced Hispanic Heritage Month, which began as a week of remembrance. Its purpose was to recognize the contributions of the Latino community and coincided with the growing awareness of the multicultural identities of the United States following the height of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. Later, on September 17, 1968, Congress on recently passed Public Law 90-497, which asked the president to establish a National Hispanic Heritage Week beginning September 15 and 16 each year.
These dates are important because of their overlap with independence day celebrations in some Latin American countries. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua declared their independence from Spain on September 15, 1821.
In 1989, President George HW Bush became the first president to proclaim the month-long period from September 15 to October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month. President Bush was also the sponsor for the Hispanic Heritage Week resolution when it was introduced to Congress in 1968.
Each year Hispanic Heritage Month has its own theme. The National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers says this year’s theme is “Unidos: Inclusion for a Stronger Nation.” This theme encourages everyone in the community to ensure that all voices are represented and welcomed – this helps us all build strong communities and a stronger nation.
In my personal opinion, this year’s theme can really bring us all together because inclusivity can ease the isolation felt by people of color living in a predominantly white society. The theme itself tells us that it is essential that we all come together and remain inclusive. In this age where there is so much diversity in the world, it can sometimes be difficult to stay inclusive and considerate of people, but with a little effort and consideration, it really isn’t that difficult.
Let’s also remember that while this month is dedicated to celebrating Hispanic culture, it’s something that should be celebrated every month of the year.
There are many ways to celebrate this month on and off campus. For example, Fiesta on the Green will be hosted by the Office of Academic Success and Intercultural Services and will be an opportunity for students to experience Latino cultures through various activities. OASIS hosts all kinds of cultural events on campus throughout the year, so keep an eye out for others.
These events will allow you to experience elements of the rich Hispanic and Latino cultures with all kinds of music and performances that we might not otherwise be lucky enough to experience in our everyday lives. These are wonderful opportunities for people to learn, understand why these cultures are important and see how they contribute to our society.
Malvika Vijju is a new women’s and gender studies major. Contact him at [email protected].
