Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off: A celebration commemorating the important legacy of Hispanics in the US
The idea was born when, on Sept. 17, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson first proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Week. It was the first time the federal government paid special tribute to the stories and contributions of Hispanic Americans.
Hispanic Couple-File Image
Monday kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month, a 30-day celebration in which the U.S. recognizes the achievements and legacy of the Hispanic community in the country.
This celebration has its origins in the civil rights movements of the 1960s, a historic moment when minority groups, including Latinos, began to advocate for greater recognition and inclusion in society.
History
¿Por qué varios países de Centroamérica celebran su independencia el 15 de septiembre?
Williams Perdomo
The idea came about when, on Sept. 17, 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson first proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Week. The week, which ended up becoming a month, was designed to celebrate the culture, history and accomplishments of people of Hispanic and Latino descent in the United States.
It was the first time that the federal government paid special tribute to the stories and contributions of Hispanic Americans.
Ronald Reagan as a precursor to Hispanic Heritage Month
The success and visibility of Johnson's proclamation paved the way for broader recognition. In 1988, Congress passed a law, signed by President Ronald Reagan, making Hispanic Heritage Week Hispanic Heritage Month.
Society
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The celebration focuses not only on historic figures, but also on contemporary personalities who contribute significantly to the growth and development of American society.
Why does Hispanic Heritage Month begin on Sept. 15?
Initially, the date of Sept. 15 was chosen because it coincides with the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador and Costa Rica.
Economy
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Mexico celebrates its independence on Sept. 16 and Chile does so on Sept. 18, making these days a time of great historical importance for many Hispanic nations.
By starting the celebration on this symbolic date, it honors the shared struggle for independence and the cultural heritage that unites these countries. It also serves as a reminder of the deep historical connections between Latin America and the United States.
Activities commemorating Hispanic heritage
During Hispanic Heritage Month the government, businesses, universities and media organize a myriad of festivals, parades, exhibitions and conferences that highlight the Hispanic influence in various fields, such as politics, education and culture.
According to the Hispanic Council, of the more than 336 million inhabitants that make up the total U.S. population, more than 64 million are Hispanic, representing about 19% of the population. This community has become the fastest growing minority group and is highly influential at the economic and cultural levels.
The Hispanic footprint in the U.S.
And most importantly, the group maintains pride in its Hispanic roots. That is reflected in the fact that most speak Spanish today and consider it important that the next generations maintain their language, according to a Pew Research study.
A majority of Latinos (65%) say it is very important that future generations of Latinos in the United States speak Spanish, including a third who say it is extremely important. That is, 85% say it is somewhat important. Only 5% say it is not at all important.
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