In 1976, in response to an effort by many to gain a day of recognition for the great influence Native Americans have had upon the United States, Congress designated a week of October to celebrate Native American Awareness Week.
Hispanic Heritage Month initially began as a weeklong celebration in 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson. In 1988 President Ronald Reagan extended the week to a full 31 days — through Oct. 15 — keeping the Sept.
