Hi Hamama Friends!
Today marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month and we are so excited to celebrate and highlight the Hispanic culture. Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from September 15th - October 15th. This is a time to truly appreciate and celebrate the colorful cultures, rich histories, and diversity of the American Latino and Hispanic communities.
Interesting facts about Hispanic Heritage Month:
- September 15th is a significant day because it’s the anniversary of independence for these Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th, respectively.¹
- The observation started 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 starting on September 15th and ending on October 15th. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.¹
- The U.S. Hispanic population reached 62.1 million in 2020, up from 50.5 million in 2010.²
- The month is celebrated nationwide through festivals, parades, art shows, conferences, community gatherings, and much more.³
How to Observe National Hispanic Heritage Month:
- Plan a fiesta!
Plan a little party with friends and family highlighting lots of tasty Hispanic food! Share stories about Hispanic culture. Listen to Hispanic music or put on a Hispanic show/movie.
Here’s a list of series that celebrate the achievements of Latino creators and communities, and cover a wide range of genres, from kid-friendly animation to comedies and emotional dramas. Enjoy these incredible comedies, dramas, docs, music, and more, this month!
2. Get involved in fine arts!
Light up your minds by delving into some Hispanic arts. Frida Kahlo’s paintings are a good start!
Here are 15 Hispanic and Latinx Artists you can follow on Instagram so you can have inspiration right at your fingertips!
3. Start learning Spanish
Hispanics make up about 20% of the US population (making up the largest ethnic minority). What better way to get more connected than by learning some Spanish?
Duolingo is a fun, free and effective way to learn a new language!