National Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15. It’s designated as a time to recognize the contributions and influence of Latinx and Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the U.S.
When Hispanic Heritage Month was first introduced in June 1968 (Congress passed a public law in September 1968), it started as a commemorative week. It was extended to a month (September 15 – October 15) in 1989 under George H.W. Bush.
Did You Know?
The reason Hispanic Heritage Month starts and ends mid-month is to align with the Independence Day celebrations of several Latin American nations.
September 15 was chosen as the kickoff because it coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of five countries —Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua – who declared their independence from Spain on September 15, 1821. In addition, Mexico declared its independence from Spain on September 16, 1810, Chile celebrates its independence from Spain on September 18, 1810 and Belize declared its independence from Great Britain on September 21, 1981.
You can find more information about Hispanic Heritage Month at https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov
