On September 15th, Hispanic Heritage month began. The celebration stretches for thirty days, ending on October 15th. September 15th marks the anniversary of Independence for multiple Latin American countries.
The month commemorates the history of Hispanic culture, past history, and the impact it has had on American society. Individuals of the Hispanic community are seen for their importance.
The importance of this month’s celebration is for families to gather together to recognize their families history.
It began under the presidency of President Lyndon B. Johnson. President Ronald Regan expanded from the previous week’s celebration to instead a full month.
With this year’s changes for Hispanic families, some events are taking a pause. That is from fear of their safety from recent ICE crackdowns. National policies have changed throughout the past year, but that isn’t stopping every city.
One city, Austin, Texas, is hosting a festival named the “Juntos Festival,” where food, music, and performances will take place.
To showcase the diversity of Hispanic culture, cities all over America host parties, festivals, and incorporate various traditions into the celebrations. Live music is often seen all over the country with also the incorporation of dance workshops to teach families traditional dances.
Included in festivals are the extraordinary varieties of dishes. Restaurants highlight famous dishes like arepas, empanadas, and even tres leche cake. Many festivals are related strictly to food where families can try food from all different hispanic cultures.
Altogether, Hispanic Heritage Month was created to help people recognize and give recognition to those. It truly is a time to honor the strength they have put forth for their future and to honor their commitment to the United States.
Between the months of September and October the celebration welcomes families of all ethnicities to learn more about the importance of their culture. It reminds the country of the great accomplishments and sacrifices they have made with also the invitation for others to celebrate alongside.
