National Hispanic Heritage Month

According to National Hispanic Heritage Month’s official website (https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov), “The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. The day of September 15 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 or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.”

The National Park Service’s website is an excellent resource that provides a detailed background of the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month, as well as comprehensive information about each community that recognizes this holiday

Hispanic generally refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of someone who is from, a Spanish-speaking country.

Latino, Latina, Latine, or Latinx, generally refers to a person who is from, or a descendant of someone who is from, a country in Latin America. It is often a personal choice which term is used by an individual. There are a lot of connections between Latino and Hispanic American identity in the US, so National Hispanic American Heritage Month celebrations often include Latino Americans as well.