Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed in America from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the history, culture and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The tradition started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988; it was enacted into law on August 17, 1988.
According to hispanicheritagemonth.gov, September 15th is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.
To explore educational resources on National Hispanic Heritage Month, visit hispanicheritagemonth.gov