Commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates, recognizes, and commemorates the histories and cultures of Hispanic Americans and their ancestry. Originating in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week, it was officially expanded to the full 31-day period in 1988. September 15th was chosen as the first day of celebration because it is the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico celebrates their independence on September 16th and Chile celebrates their independence on September 18th. The month ends on October 15th.

Hispanic Heritage Month is significant because it allows for Hispanic Americans to celebrate their heritage and culture and feel seen and heard by people outside of their community. It also offers the opportunity for everyone to be educated about history and practices they might be unfamiliar with, as well as shed light on past or current issues that Hispanic Americans contend with daily. It's also important to acknowledge the countless contributions that the Hispanic American community have made to our country and to the world. There are many ways to celebrate throughout the month, whether it be through music, film, food, history, art, or activism.

If you would like to learn more, here are some resources to offer more information and upcoming events in Boston honoring Hispanic Heritage Month:

• www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/about/
• www.history.com/topics/hispanic-history/hispanic-heritage-month
• http://www.boston.gov/health-and-human-services/national-hispanic-heritage-month