In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Canyon students that are enrolled in the Spanish curriculum were assigned to color and write facts about famous Hispanic individuals. Eventually, they were later placed around populated spots on campus for staff and students to read about them.
So, what exactly is National Hispanic Heritage Month, and how did it come to be? What is its significance? Why do we celebrate it? These questions, and many more, will be answered in this article.
National Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration in the United States that recognizes the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the nation’s culture, history, and society. It spans from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, with Sept. 15 marking the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries, including Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Columbia, and Costa Rica. Mexico’s Independence Day falls on Sept. 16, and Chile’s on Sept. 18.
The event was first established by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968, originally only lasting a week. In 1998, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a month-long celebration.
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, various events, festivals, and activities take place across the country to celebrate. These events often include performances, food festivals, music concerts, and lectures that showcase the richness of Hispanic and Latino culture.
Many schools, such as Canyon High School, use this month as an opportunity to teach students about the history, traditions, and achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Teachers here at Canyon recognize the accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, such as science, sports, entertainment, and civil rights.
As an individual of Mexican-American descent, my family loves to use this month as an excuse to fill our bellies and have parties that last until 2 a.m.
Las tías (aunts), madres (moms), and abuelitas (grandmas) usually prepare popular Mexican dishes. These dishes include tamales, enchiladas, pozole, mole (moh-lay), and tacos with various types of meats. Sitting around a table chismeando (gossip) while enjoying a delicious meal is a must at parties.
My personal favorite activity at a party is definitely dancing. It is common to dance with family members such as cousins, aunts, uncles, and even la novia or el novio (boyfriend or girlfriend) that the tíos are always asking about. My family loves to dance to banda, Jarabe Tapatío (Mexican Hat Dance), cumbia or bachata.
National Hispanic Heritage Month provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to learn about and appreciate the history, culture, and achievements of the Hispanic and Latin American communities.
