What is Hispanic Heritage Month?

September 15- October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 - October 15 every year. During this time, we nationally honor the contributions and culture of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Taking this time to learn something new about Hispanic culture, or trying your hand at cooking a traditional Latin American recipe are ways to celebrate our neighbors. During this month and throughout the year, we, and our partners, share the history, heritage, and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino Americans past and present.

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.

This month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries. The observation began 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. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988. The theme for 2022 is "Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation”.

From The American Presidency Project: Proclamation 10257—National Hispanic Heritage Month, 2021: “National Hispanic Heritage Month is an important reminder of how much strength we draw as a Nation from our immigrant roots and our values as a Nation of immigrants. I am proud to recognize my four Hispanic Cabinet Secretaries—Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, and Small Business Administrator Isabel Guzman—who are all leading executive departments that oversee critical components of American life.”

Three Interesting Facts About Hispanics and Latinos in the United States:

Hispanics and Latinos are not necessarily the same. Hispanics are descended from Spanish-speaking populations. Latinos are people of Latin American descent.
Currently, the Hispanic population in the United States stands at more than 56 million, making it the largest racial or ethnic group in the United States.*
It is estimated that by 2065 the Latino population in the United States will grow to 107 million people.*

*Pew Research Hispanic Trends Project Statistics & U.S. Census Bureau

Join the conversation on social media by sharing your own inspiration and learning more about Hispanic and Latino heritage. We want to hear from you!

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