This is an annual celebration of Latinx and Hispanic communities in the United States. The month-long commemoration is a chance to learn and celebrate Hispanic and Latinx cultures. Here is a bit of history - On September 17, 1968, Congress passed Public Law 90-48, officially authorizing and requesting the president to issue annual proclamations declaring September 15 and 16 to mark the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Week. Years later, on September 14, 1989, President George H.W. Bush (who had been a sponsor of the original Hispanic Heritage Week resolution while serving in the House in 1968) became the first president to declare the 31-day period from September 15 to October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month. The timing of Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of several Latin American nations (history.com, 2022).

You too can celebrate! We've put together a short list of ways you can celebrate and there is something for everyone. Enjoy! 

8 ways to celebrate Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month:

• Learn about the history and heritage of Hispanic and Latinx culture
• Make a Hispanic/Latinx dish like arepas or chilaquiles or, order from your favorite local restaurant like Lomeli's Mexican Food or The Pepper
• Try a new game with friends or family like the game of chance called, Loteria
• Search for new reads from Hispanic and Latinx authors. Here are some suggestions!

1. For children: "Abuela" by Arthur Durros
2. 13+: "Return to Sender" by Julia Alvarez
3. Young adults: "Woven in Moonlight" by Isabel Ibañez
4. Adults: "The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina" by Zoraida Córdova

• Have a movie night! We haven't talked about Bruno in a while...
• Listen to new music. Spotify has many Hispanic and Latinx genres you can discover.  Or say, "Hey Siri, Play Selena!"
• Listen to a Podcast. Some suggestions are, La Brega, Draws in Spanish, Being Seen, Cultureverse
• Go shopping! Target has a whole category dedicated to celebrating Hispanic/Latinx designers and brands

There are many ways to celebrate different cultures and we enjoy discovering ways we can celebrate locally by supporting Hispanic and Latinx businesses. If you have any other ideas or suggestions, please reach out!