LibGuides: Hispanic Heritage Studies: Hispanic American Heritage Month

History and Resources

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

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 15th 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.

(https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about.html)

Image: "'A symbol of our heritage' | St. Louis organization unveils Hispanic Heritage Flag." 5 on Your Side, KSDK News, 24 August 2023, https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/st-louis-organization-unveils-hispanic-heritage-flag/63-668d0fce-a09c-4abd-93f3-362a712b830c. Accessed 30 August 2023.

The History Channel Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the history and culture of the U.S. Latino and Hispanic communities. Hispanic Heritage Month 2023 will last from September 15 through October 15. The event commemorates how those communities have influenced and contributed to American society at large.
National Geographic Hispanic Heritage Education Resources
During National Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month, recognized in the United States September 15 through October 15, the National Geographic Society celebrates the many generations of Hispanic, Latino, Latina, and Latinx people who have made and continue to make countless contributions to help illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. We are committed to amplifying these contributions during National Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month and throughout the year.
PBS: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15 and it is a great time to learn more about the diversity of Hispanic and Latina/e/o/x experiences and cultures. In 2020, the U.S. Hispanic population was an estimated 62 million out of the total U.S. population of 331.4 million.