Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration that honors Hispanic and Latino culture and history for a month long. This time offers the perfect opportunity to learn more about the lasting impact this community has left on the world and our country. Beginning on September 15 and ending October 15, Americans celebrate Latino accomplishments and culture in the U.S. 

Communities come together and celebrate this time with events such as parades, festivals, and educational activities. Through different traditions, values, and cultures, the Hispanic people help shape the identity of the U.S. This celebration dates back to 1968, when President Lyndon Johnson created National Hispanic Heritage Week. Twenty years later, President George Bush made the celebration a month long, which is how it is celebrated today.

The beginning of the celebration, September 15th, has to do with the independence days of Hispanic countries. El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua all celebrate their independence days on this day.

Understanding history is crucial when observing the legacy of something such as the Hispanic and Latino community. It is important to have a deep understanding because it allows people to grasp the sacrifice and hard work that this community has had to endure in order to be able to contribute to what they do today. 

There are countless ways as to how these different groups of people enrich the world with their existence. Some may argue the best thing brought to the table is the cuisine. Their food proves that flavor is a universal language, allowing culture to be tasted as well as celebrated. Student Danny Martinez (12) shares, “I love my Mexican culture, especially the food that comes with it.”

But it is also valuable to acknowledge milestones that Hispanics and Latinos have reached. Some rapid-fire historical Hispanic and Latino accomplishments are Leonel Messi, Argentinian, having the most goals in a calendar year, or Ellen Ochoa, being the first Hispanic woman in space and later a director of a NASA space center. These achievements show the wide range of attributes, which have not only helped shape history, but have also inspired the future. 

Back to the crowd’s favorite food! Widely known and loved foods that Americans love are tacos from Mexico, empanadas from Colombia, and ceviche from Peru. Student Svea Hazlett (12) says, “My favorite Mexican food my mom makes is pozole!”

These flavorful foods add richness to American cuisine and food culture. Beyond traditions and accomplishments, Hispanic heritage raises American life with its strong values in their communities and families. Created years ago, Hispanic households are strong in their values and prioritize respect for their morals. By honoring cultural ties and traditions, Hispanic culture educates and demonstrates valuable ways on how these cultures carry themselves as a community and as individuals.

Commemorations such as Hispanic Heritage Month are traditions in which whole communities are brought together for a moment of unity, regardless of cultural backgrounds. This month-long period invites people to not only participate in celebrations and festivals, but to also learn about the history, struggle, and achievements that Hispanics and Latinos have accomplished.