Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15) – also known as Mes de la Herencia Hispana - is dedicated to raising awareness of and celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors hail from Spain, Mexico, and the Caribbean as well as Central and South America and other Latin American countries.
The national observation, which began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson, was expanded by President Ronald Reagan two decades later to cover a 30-day period, and, in August 1998, Hispanic Heritage Month was enacted into law.
The dates of the month-long annual observance are significant; September 15 is the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua). Additionally, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively, and Day of the Races or Día de la Raza, which is October 9, falls within this 30-day period.
From astronauts and entertainers to judges and scientists, Hispanic Americans have contributed much to our rich history. Join the Edison Public Library in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month 2024 and check out the works from authors from the Latinx and Hispanic communities. |
