September 15th marked the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, a month that celebrates Hispanic and Latino history and culture within the United States. The month, which aims to celebrate those from South/Central American countries, Mexico, and The Caribbean, occurs over the span of one month, ending on October 15th. Here are some facts about Hispanic and Latino culture within the United States and some ways to celebrate the month in the coming weeks.
Within the United States, Hispanic and Latino individuals make up around 19% of the population. Hispanic Heritage Month occurs in the middle of the month corresponding with the dates of independence for many Latin American countries, including Mexico, Chile, El Salvador, Belize, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras. Hispanic culture and space continues to grow within the United States, with the country being home to the second largest population of Mexicans, outside of Mexico itself.
There are three key ways individuals can show participation and enthusiasm towards the month. One way is by partaking in Hispanic cuisine. Learning to cook or going out to eat authentic Hispanic dishes is a great way to show support towards local Hispanic communities. Consuming Hispanic media is also a great way to enrich oneself into Hispanic and Latino culture. This can include T.V. shows, podcasts, art, or books made by Latino and Hispanic creators. Lastly, taking time to learn more about Hispanic culture and activists, as well as supporting local Hispanic organizations, is key in participation of the month. Trailblazers such as Sonia Sotomayor, Dolores Huerta, and Cesar Chavez all helped pave the way for more inclusion and diversity in the United States for Hispanics and Latinos, and are great figures to study just how much Hispanic people have influenced U.S. history and culture.
Overall, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and appreciate the ways Latino culture has impacted the United States. In addition to the media and history Hispanic people have contributed to the United States, their culture has helped shape American culture as it is seen today. For the remainder of the month, morning prayer will be done in both English and Spanish in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. It is important to recognize the lasting impact Hispanic culture has had within the United States and will continue to have for years to come.
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