HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
What’s With Hispanic Heritage Month?
The confusion on social media can be humorous but the racism isn’t
Every year, many folks are confused by Hispanic Heritage Month starting on September 15, not the beginning of the month like most other commemorations.
Allow me to explain.
September 15 marks the day of independence for five Central American nations who declared their independence on that day in 1821. They are Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16, Chile on September 18, and Belize on September 21.
Background
Hispanic Heritage Month originally began as Hispanic Heritage Week which was established by legislation and signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968. The idea was to recognize the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.
Hispanic Heritage Week would later be expanded upon in 1988 when legislation was presented to former president Ronald Reagan and he signed it into law. September 15 was chosen as a starting point because of the independence days shared by the five countries.
