Friday, September 15, 2006

Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 - October 15



According to the U.S. Census Bureau Press Release entitled, "Facts For Features (Special Edition): Hispanic Heritage Month" (CB06-FF.14, September 5, 2006):
DURING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH: "America celebrates the culture and traditions of U.S. residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean."

AS IS WIDELY KNOWN:
People of Hispanic origin constitute both the largest and the fastest growing ethnic or race minority in the United States.

HOWEVER, DID YOU KNOW? That was not the case when, "In September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week," or when "The observance was expanded in 1988 to a monthlong celebration (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15)."

WHY DOES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH BEGIN SEPTEMBER 15? "Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively."

PARA APRENDER MÁS (TO LEARN MORE):