Latinas and Latinos have had an incredible impact on the United States for generations. Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) gives us an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the unique contributions, voices, and experiences of Hispanic/Latino Americans. Through these celebrations, we recognize their history, journeys, and achievements, inspiring younger generations and bringing communities together.
Did you know?
Why is Hispanic Heritage Month celebrated from September 15 to October 15 instead of one single month?
Hispanic Heritage Month aligns with the independence days of many Central American countries, beginning on September 15 with Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
How many Latinos live in the United States?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Latino population in the United States today, which includes entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, entertainers, scientists, public servants, and much more, is over 60 million (18.9% of the total population)! One in four children in America today is Hispanic.
What is the difference between the terms Hispanic and Latino?
According to the National Museum of the American Latino, "Hispanic and Latino are the two most used terms to describe Americans with Latin American and Caribbean ancestry. You may often see these terms used interchangeably, but different people understand and use these terms differently. The National Museum of the American Latino uses the term “Latino” to describe the diverse residents of the United States with cultural or ancestral ties to Latin America or the Caribbean. For many, the term "Latino" also creates room for acknowledging Black, Indigenous, Asian, and other heritages on equal terms with European ancestry. The term “Hispanic” is used to signal a connection to Spain or the Spanish language."
Celebrating diversity and resilience
One of my favorite ways to celebrate the diversity and resilience of the Latino community during Hispanic Heritage Month is to explore the lives and contributions of Latinas and Latinos who have broken boundaries and shaped the United States. Throughout our country’s history, the Latino community has had a profound impact on US culture, history, and democracy.
Olga E. Custodio
A native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Custodio made history as the first Latina US Military pilot, serving in the United States Air Force for 24 years.
Cesar Chavez
Chavez was a civil rights activist whose passion was to improve the working and living conditions of farm workers in the United States. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association in 1962 (alongside Dolores Huerta), which eventually merged with other unions to become the United Farm Workers of America.
Selena
The “Queen of Tejano,” Selena was the first Tejano artist to win a Grammy, and was instrumental in opening doors for future generations of Latino musicians. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans.
Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor
Sotomayer became the first Latina and third woman to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States after earning degrees from Princeton University and Yale Law School.
Dr. Ellen Ochoa
Aboard the space shuttle Discovery in 1993, Dr. Ochoa became the first Latina to go to space. She was also the Johnson Space Center’s first Latina director, inspiring others with her accomplishments.
Lin-Manuel Miranda
Not only is Lin-Manuel Miranda a groundbreaking and Pulitzer Prize, Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning composer, playwright, and actor, he continues to be active in his support to increase the representation of people of color. An all-around entertainer, Manuel wrote and starred in Broadway's Hamilton and In the Heights, and wrote the songs for Disney's Encanto.
Carolina Herrera
Herrera launched a clothing brand in New York in 1981, and the fashion designer’s brand continues to be a staple in American culture. She is known for her timeless, stylish pieces, inspired by her European travels and attendance at fashion shows.
Helen Rodríguez-Trías
As the American Public Health Association’s first Latina president, Rodriguez-Trías fought for women and children to have increased access to healthcare and for the abolishment of forced sterilization.
Whether you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning about important advocacy work, enjoying vibrant art and/or traditional foods, or supporting local Latina and Latino entrepreneurs, you will be inspired by the Latino community's long and strong presence in the United States. Hispanic Heritage Month is the perfect time to respectfully celebrate the amazing traditions and accomplishments of a valuable community.
