The observation of Hispanic Heritage in the United States started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.
It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.
Here are three ways you and your family can observe the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month on Sept 15.
  1. Plan a fiesta! Prepare tasty food, play traditional mariachi music in the background and create “sombreros” as an art project for everyone!
  2. Light up young minds by introducing them to Hispanic artists and arts! Frida Kahlo’s paintings are a good start! Amazon has children’s books about Frida Kahlo, Louis Fuertes and Gabriel Garcia Marquez and that is only the beginning.
  3. Start learning Spanish! We all learned a little bit in school, so why not go all the way! Who knows where that might take you?

Saturday and Sunday, October 10 and 11, 2020

Commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month

The United States observes September 15–October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month. During the month, we commemorate the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

The observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988.

September 15 is the anniversary of the 1821 independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua from Spain. Mexico, Chile, and Belize also celebrate their independence in September.

We celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing the contributions made by Hispanic and Latino Americans and celebrating their heritage and culture.

Explore more at the National Archives website.