Page 9 - Spok Inside Track

CELEBRATE NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by
celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain,
Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The observance was born in 1968 when Congress
authorized the president to issue an annual proclamation designating National Hispanic Heritage Week. Two
decades later, lawmakers expanded it to a month-long celebration, stretching from September 15 to October 15.

Hispanic Heritage Month always starts on September 15, a historically significant day that marks the anniversary
of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
The designated period is also a nod to those from Mexico and Chile, which celebrate their independence on Sept.
16 and Sept. 18, respectively.
Typically, many events are hosted throughout the United States, from concerts to book and art festivals and
parades. A majority of the festivities held throughout the United States are family-friendly and occur at the local
level—and many are free. In October 2019, for instance, the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., hosted a
screening and Q&A for the documentary Exiled, America’s Deported Veterans. Official tourism sites for cities
such as Miami and Miami Beach have also offer neatly-curated lists for how to celebrate.
In 2020, however, most of these events will likely be virtual due to the coronavirus pandemic. At home, you
might consider getting festive with a menu full of Latin American dishes. You can also make it a point to
support Latinx-owned businesses. And there's never been a better time to relax with a good book by a Spanish-
language author that takes you into someone else's experience.
Check out the official Hispanic Heritage Month website to learn more about the history, heritage, and
accomplishments of Hispanic and Latinx Americans of past and present.