National Hispanic Heritage Month: Ways to Celebrate and Honor Hispanic & Latinx Culture

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15th to October 15th. This month-long celebration honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of Latinx and Hispanic communities in the United States. The celebration is a recognition of past achievements and a time to highlight the ongoing contributions that Hispanic and Latinx communities continue to make to the fabric of the United States.

The Origins and History of Hispanic Heritage Month

Originally established as Hispanic Heritage Week by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968, this celebration was expanded to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. The expansion allowed for a more comprehensive recognition of the rich heritage and diverse contributions of Hispanic Americans across various fields. The month’s observance serves as a reminder of the significant role that Hispanic and Latinx communities have played in the development and growth of the United States.

The significance of the dates—September 15 to October 15—reflects the Independence Days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15th, Mexico on September 16th, and Chile on September 18th. These dates were chosen to honor the shared history and cultural ties among these countries, as well as their collective struggle and self-determination in achieving independence.

The history of Hispanic Heritage Month also underscores the importance of recognizing the diverse origins within the Hispanic and Latinx communities. While the term "Hispanic" broadly refers to people of Spanish-speaking origin, the cultures, traditions, and histories of these communities are incredibly diverse, spanning Europe, Africa, and the Americas. This diversity is a cornerstone of what makes the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month so vibrant and rich.

Exploring the Cultural Contributions of Hispanic Americans

Hispanic Americans have enriched American culture in countless ways, contributing significantly to the arts, music, literature, cuisine, science, and social movements.

Art and Literature

Hispanic artists and writers have made profound contributions to American culture. Frida Kahlo, known for her powerful self-portraits and exploration of identity, postcolonialism, gender, class, and race in Mexican society, has become an iconic figure in both art and feminist circles.

Another notable artist is Diego Rivera, whose large-scale murals depicted the working class and indigenous cultures of Mexico, often highlighting social issues such as labor rights and the impact of industrialization.

Their works are not just celebrated in the United States but globally, and they continue to influence contemporary art and discussions around cultural identity. In literature, the works of Gabriel García Márquez, a Colombian novelist, have left an indelible mark on the world of storytelling. His novel One Hundred Years of Solitude is a cornerstone of magical realism, a genre that blends the real and the fantastical, reflecting the complex realities of Latin American life.

Isabel Allende, a Chilean-American author, has also made significant contributions to literature with her novels that often explore themes of love, identity, and the experience of exile. Her works, like The House of the Spirits, have captivated readers around the world.

Music and Dance

The rhythms and melodies of Hispanic music have become an integral part of the American musical landscape. Genres like salsa, merengue, mariachi, and reggaeton have shaped the music industry and influenced many other musical styles.

Artists like Gloria Estefan and Carlos Santana paved the way for Latin music in the United States, bringing it to mainstream audiences and earning numerous accolades. Selena, the Queen of Tejano music, also played a crucial role in breaking barriers, becoming a cultural icon, and inspiring generations of artists. More recently, artists such as Bad Bunny and Rosalía have continued this tradition, blending Latin sounds with contemporary genres to create a global phenomenon. For a deeper dive into the impact of Latin music, check out the resources from the Latin Recording Academy and Rolling Stone’s coverage of Latin music.

Cuisine

Hispanic cuisine has become a beloved part of the American culinary landscape, with dishes like tacos, tamales, and empanadas enjoyed by people of all backgrounds across the country. Hispanic culinary traditions emphasize community, family, and the sharing of meals, which have enriched the social fabric of American society.

Beyond the familiar staples, there is a vast diversity within Hispanic cuisine, reflecting the unique flavors and ingredients of different regions. From the rich mole sauces of Mexico to the hearty stews of Spain, the fresh ceviches of Peru, and the savory mofongo of Puerto Rico, Hispanic cuisine offers a wide range of flavors and experiences. To explore more about Hispanic cuisine and its influence, visit Bon Appétit’s Guide to Latin American Cuisine and the Smithsonian’s Food History section.

Social Movements

Hispanic Americans have also played a crucial role in shaping social and political movements in the United States. Activists like Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta were instrumental in the fight for labor rights, particularly for farm workers. Their leadership in the United Farm Workers (UFW) union helped secure better wages and working conditions for thousands of agricultural laborers, many of whom were Hispanic. Their efforts are a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of social justice.

These cultural contributions are just a snapshot of the vast and varied ways in which Hispanic Americans have shaped and enriched the United States. Their influence is seen not only in the past but continues to grow and evolve, contributing to the vibrant diversity that defines American society today.

How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month: Engaging with Hispanic Culture

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month can be a deeply enriching experience that allows you to connect with and learn more about Hispanic culture. Here are some events and activities taking place in Colorado:

• Spirit Guides Outdoor Art Tour

  • When: September 8-29, 2024

  • Where: Denver Botanic Garden

  • About: Created by the workshop of Mexican artists Jacobo and María Ángeles, these brightly colored and richly patterned sculptures depict imaginary hybrid animals that act as both spirit guides and astrological embodiments of human character. Inspired by the Zapotec calendar, Spirit Guides is an unforgettable outdoor experience that reminds us of the profound connections that bind us to the inhabitants of the natural (and cosmological) world.

    
    

• 30th Annual Pueblo Chile and Frijoles Festival

  • When: September 20-22, 2024

  • Where: Historic Downtown Pueblo/Union Avenue

  • About: This festival promotes Pueblo’s rich agricultural heritage, encouraging the community to buy fresh, local products year-round. The event is a celebration of local agriculture, particularly the famous Pueblo Chile, and offers a chance to enjoy food, music, and cultural activities that highlight the region's Hispanic roots.

    
    

• Poudre Pour Art & Culture Fest: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

  • When: October 12th, 2024, from 1 PM to 5 PM

  • Where: Windsor History Museum

  • About: The Poudre Pour Art and Culture Fest is an annual event celebrating our river corridor’s vibrant history and culture. This community event features live music and performances, visual and culinary arts, interactive educational exhibits and demonstrations, historic tours, and more!

Embracing the Richness of Hispanic Heritage

By celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the vital role that Hispanic Americans play in shaping the United States. Whether through attending local events, supporting Hispanic-owned businesses, or exploring Hispanic culture, there are many ways to participate and contribute to the vibrant legacy of Hispanic heritage in our country. Let this month be a reminder of the importance of diversity and the strength it brings to our communities.

A Note About Inclusive Language and Terminology

The terms Hispanic and Latino are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings. "Hispanic" was introduced by the U.S. Census Bureau in the 1970s to describe people from Spanish-speaking countries or communities, such as Puerto Ricans, Mexican Americans, and Cuban Americans. "Latino," however, refers to people from Latin America, including non-Spanish-speaking countries like Brazil. Neither term fully captures racial, Indigenous, or gender diversity, leading to the use of more inclusive, gender-neutral alternatives like "Latinx" and "Latine." Cultural responsiveness means understanding the nuance behind these terms and recognizing that preferences may change over time, reflecting the ongoing evolution of identity.

For more details on the distinctions and cultural significance of these terms, you can explore resources such as this article and this blog.