Hispanic Heritage Month began as a week-long celebration in 1968 under President Johnson and was expanded to a month in 1988 by President Reagan to recognize the significant contributions Hispanic/Latino/a Americans have made in the United States. The start date coincides with the national independence days of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Mexico celebrates on the 16th, Chile on the 18th, and Belize on the 21st.

What is the difference between Hispanic and Latino/a? Hispanic and Latino/a are the two most used terms to describe Americans with Latin American and Caribbean ancestry. These terms may be used interchangeably but “Latino/a” generally describes residents of the United States with cultural or ancestral ties to Latin America or the Caribbean. The term “Hispanic” is used to signal a connection to Spain or the Spanish language.

Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the unique voices and experiences of Hispanic/Latino/a Americans. It’s crucial to showcase the contributions of this community. As our country continues to increase in diversity and divisiveness, it’s necessary for all citizens to learn more about American Latino/a experiences and to recognize and value their many contributions. To learn more, check out the National Museum of the American Latino/a website here.