Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage month is a celebration of the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Americans observe this recognition September 15 to October 15.

September 15 is significant because it is Independence Day for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, while Mexico celebrates independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18. Indigenous People’s Day and Día de la Raza are celebrated by many Spanish-speaking countries during this time as well.

“The word Hispanic is generally a linguistical category, referring to people from the 21 Spanish-speaking countries and territories, including Spain. The word Latino is more of an ethnic and cultural category, used to describe people who are descendants from Latin America, including Mexico, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Cuba, Central and South America. It is often a personal choice which term people use to describe themselves.”  (University of Washington, link)