Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration in the United States, observed from September 15 to October 15 each year, to honor the histories, cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. It recognizes the heritage and impact of communities with roots in 20 Latin American countries and territories, including Spain, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. The celebration coincides with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, such as Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Chile. Hispanic Heritage Month was initially established as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded to a full month in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan to give greater recognition to the significant and ongoing influence of Hispanic Americans in the country. The purpose of celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is to recognize and honor the countless contributions of Hispanic Americans to the nation’s history and culture, to highlight their activism for equity and access, and to celebrate their diverse traditions and legacies. It is also a time to inspire future generations by honoring the past and acknowledging the influential roles Latinos and Latinas continue to play in areas like business, arts, civil rights, public service, and more. The month-long observance encourages education and awareness about Hispanic and Latino experiences and contributions, ensuring their histories are valued and represented in society, especially given the significant portion of the U.S. population with Hispanic heritage and the growing economic and cultural impact of this community.
